Ecofutures Building strives to assist in the design and building of zero-energy homes assessed on a source-energy basis - taking into account the economical and ecological costs of energy - from electricity, propane and other sources.  A fundamental element to our homes, therefore, is the inclusion of some energy-producing component that is able to contribute energy to the grid, such as photovoltaic panels.

Other features of our net-zero energy homes include:

• Super-insulated building envelopes
• Airtight construction to Energy Star standards
  
• Cloudy cold snap storage in the form of heat stored in the water on site, or in the form of electricity stored in the grid from excess summertime PV production
  
• Correct orientation for solar gain, with proper eaves & overhangs to allow desired winter sun and block unwanted summer sun
• State of the art, custom, energy and comfort systems like this one, designed for a zero energy home built this summer
  
• Accurately specified windows and window glazings
• Solar collection for hot water
• Solar collection for electricity production
  
• Adequate ventilation equipment, typically in the form of an ERV for fresh air distribution
• Cooling equipment for summer months, by natural or mechanical means
• Low-emissions and non-toxic building materials in countertops, cabinets, carpets, paints and stains
  
• And, while focusing on these nuts and bolts of ZEH design, we also strive to use salvaged, recycled-content and low embodied energy materials at every juncture to help make your home have as light an environmental footprint as possible
  

To see some of our other Zero Energy Homes in the works, click here for an excel chart comparing our upcoming new construction and renovation projects for this summer or visit our other ZEH webpage.