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What do we mean by ‘net zero home’?  

In this context, a ‘net zero home’ is one with net zero operational emissions. This home has been designed to produce as much energy as it consumes over the course of a year or its lifetime. This is achieved through a combination of smaller footprint, energy-efficient design and renewable energy, resulting in a home that has a minimal environmental impact.

Benefits of a net zero home 

  • Energy Savings: These highly energy-efficient and airtight homes produce as much energy as they consume, leading to significantly lower utility bills. 
  • Environmental Impact: Through small designs, recycled and renewable materials and renewable energy like solar panels on the roof, these homes reduce greenhouse gas emissions over their lifecycle and have a lower carbon footprint. 
  • Comfort: Passive solar design, advanced insulation and airtight buildings, including double-glazed windows with thermally insulated frames, ensure a more consistent and comfortable indoor environment, year-round. 
  • Durability: Reusable, durable, healthy and partly recycled materials and finishes paired with high-quality construction means these homes require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan, with less materials ending in landfill. 
  • Health: Improved indoor air quality from better ventilation systems, heat recovery and the use of non-toxic building materials can lead to a healthier living environment. 
  • Resale Value: As energy efficiency and sustainability becomes more desirable, net zero homes can have higher resale values compared to traditional homes. 

How to Design a Net Zero Home 

  • Location and Orientation: Position your home for natural sunlight, considering ‘free heat from the sun’ during winter, but with shading during hot summers. 
  • Design: maximise natural light and ventilation and incorporate energy-efficient windows and appliances. 
  • Construction: test the airtightness of the building during construction to ensure the building performs to the design intent. 
  • Clean energy: Install solar panels for creating your own renewable energy on-site and install water tanks. 
  • Reduce your carbon footprint through smaller houses with reusable and durable building materials, energy efficient appliances and low energy consumption.

Check out the North Wright Sustainable Precinct – SLA’s first house and land package that is aiming for net zero operations over its lifetime. Explore our website to learn how design, renewable energy options and sustainable building materials have reduced each home’s overall carbon footprint.