Zero Energy Homes Increasing the energy efficiency of new homes
offers a cost-effective way to help homeowners save money and
lower their energy use, while reducing the energy and
environmental impacts of new homes. Zero Energy Homes, which are
designed to produce as much energy as they consume, can
currently be built cost-effectively while achieving energy
savings of up to 50% through energy efficiency measures, and up
to 65% savings by incorporating on-site renewable energy
systems, such as solar PV and solar thermal systems. Zero energy
homes can also reduce or nearly eliminate peak electricity
demand, which is growing rapidly in many Southwest SWEEP is
working in partnership with the DOE Building America program to
promote the adoption of programs and policies in the Southwest
that support cutting edge residential energy efficiency
technologies, including zero energy homes that reduce
conventional energy consumption by 50% or more relative to
standard new homes built to energy code. This section provides