Page 8 - Zero Net Energy Case Study Homes-Volume 2

ZERO NET ENERGY CASE STUDY HOMES FOREWORD
Focus on Decarbonization
As we begin the third decade of the 21st century, it is time to reflect on California’s deep and pio- neering history of energy efficiency and innovation, to ask ourselves: what more can we do to reduce the impact of our built environment? First and foremost, our buildings must be platforms for decarbonization. That is, they must be able to use energy when it is carbon free, typically during the day when solar is abundant, and minimize consumption at other times. In this way, demand flexibility is emerging as essential for decarbonization. Energy systems – new homes, EV charging, replacement heating and cooling equipment, etc. – must be both highly efficient and flexible to the maximum extent possible. Flexibility means interactivity with the grid: the ability to manage energy usage, proactively and situationally, to minimize both its cost drivers and its carbon content. Several projects in this volume, for example, include energy storage and other “smart” grid-responsive technologies. We need more of that!
It’s no small feat to design and build a new home – the largest investment most of us will ever make! It takes planning, persistence and courage to pull it off. My own family’s new home is built to Passive House specifications and includes many of the energy-related elements detailed in these case studies. After managing that construction, I have a deep appreciation of the sustain- able building process, the intricacies of the building code itself and the countless decisions, large and small, required along the way. The visionary homeowners and builders represented across these case studies deserve our gratitude and respect. Each project represents a step forward for our neighborhoods, communities and state.
This collection demonstrates what is possible and, I hope, will inspire others to do their own similar projects across California and beyond. I would commend everyone to experience in person these places or others like them, these high-quality indoor environments, with the luxury of time, in three dimensions and with all of one’s available senses. These are low-maintenance, healthy, quiet, resilient homes – and they are absolutely marvelous.
So, dear reader, good luck on your project!
—J. Andrew McAllister, PhD, Commissioner, California Energy Commission
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Zero Net Energy Case Study Homes: Volume 2