The 2024 Zero Energy Design Designation cohort has been announced!
It is critical that building professionals are prepared to design and construct high-performing, affordable buildings that meet Americans’ need for resiliency and health while also supporting reliable energy systems. The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Zero Energy Design Designation (ZEDD) program recognizes post-secondary academic programs that prepare students for 21st-century building careers.
Schools interested in being recognized by DOE must demonstrate a commitment to high-performance building design by offering their students a building science education curriculum within their programs of study.
To be recognized, schools must show that their program(s) of study require at least one option from each of the following columns for graduation:
Building Science Education Curriculum | Zero Energy Design Practicum |
|---|---|
| Option 1: Solar Decathlon Building Science Education learning modules | Option 1: Solar Decathlon Design Challenge through final submission (even if not selected as a finalist team) |
| Option 2: School-created building science education program addressing required learning objectives (detailed in application) | Option 2: A zero energy building design project meeting DOE Zero Energy Ready Home certification or more stringent |
Ask Us a Question
Applications for ZEDD are currently closed and will reopen in spring 2025. To learn more about the designation, view a recording of the 2024 ZEDD informational webinar. A fact sheet that summarizes the program and an application checklist are available. Email ZEDD@nrel.gov with questions.
Resources
Meet the Current ZEDD Cohort
DOE announced the third Zero Energy Design Designation cohort in September 2024. There are now 39 programs from 33 institutions that have earned the designation, which can be renewed every three years. Learn more about the current designees.
“Having ZEDD has helped me as a professor to create new opportunities for students.”
Sign up to receive updates about the Zero Energy Design Designation.