Economics of an energy efficient home Behold the IKAROS house.
Built in Germany by the University of Applied Sciences
(Rosenheim), this house aims to be completely self-sustainable.
The build uses a wealth of green technology like natural
ventilation, solar panels and vacuum insulation panels, as well
as efficient mechanical systems. “Yeah, yeah,” I hear all you
inspired economists saying. “But what’s it cost and what’s the
ROI?” The IKAROS house reportedly costs €275,000 (£239,027,
$362,800) to build but will save a family of four around €4,600
(£4,000, $6,000) in energy costs every year. According to
Inhabitat, that makes the house a net money producer, since it
generates more energy than it uses. The IKAROS house was
unveiled in 2010 during the European Solar Decathlon. While it
is still not commercially available, the lessons learned from
IKAROS can help you to get a ‘green’ home without breaking the
bank. Research has shown that homebuyers are willing to pay
upwards of an extra £24,500 ($37,500) for a gr