Zero energy buildings use a combination of energy efficiency and renewable energy to produce as much energy as they use over the course of a year.  By creating their own renewable energy, zero energy buildings lower operating and maintenance costs, help the environment, and increase resiliency during power outages.

Zero energy buildings offer a variety of benefits, including:

  • Reduced energy costs
  • Increased comfort for occupants
  • Positive environmental impact
  • Reliable and affordable operations
  • Improved energy security

In addition, many completed projects have proven that zero energy buildings can be designed within a typical construction budget using conventional materials, equipment, and tradespeople.

This website is dedicated to providing information on how you can create zero energy buildings and offering the resources you need to get started. To learn more about what defines a zero energy building, see A Common Definition for Zero Energy Buildings.

Video Url
Most buildings today use a lot of energy -- to keep the lights on, cool the air, heat water, and power personal devices. Even installing solar systems will not significantly counter the heavy energy load. There are, however, some buildings that strike a balance; or even tip the scales the other way! These are called zero energy buildings.
U.S. Department of Energy