squares



Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Ground Breaks on Cutting-Edge Demonstration Home


An innovative green technology demonstration project broke ground today at Bass Cove, just off of West Lake Sammamish Parkway in Bellevue, Washington. Shirey Contracting of Issaquah is building the Zero Energy Idea House to increase awareness of products and systems that can help inspire homeowners to move toward energy independence.

While the project’s goal is to arrive at net zero energy usage, current projections estimate the home’s annual energy cost at no more than $500. The purpose of the project, designed by Clinkston Brunner Architects of Seattle, is to demonstrate how lifestyle changes, in addition to home modifications and technologies, can impact a homeowner’s utility bill.

The project will be thoroughly documented during design and construction via a website (www.zeroenergyideahouse.com), progression photography, educational presentations, media outreach, and public and building industry tours.

The home will consume significantly less energy due to the use of structural insulated panels (SIPs), which are a highly energy efficient and cost effective alternative to traditional stick framing and fiberglass insulation. The high level of insulation provided by SIPs means the amount of energy used to heat and cool the home will be cut by as much as 50%.

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels will provide most of the home’s power, while a 1,200 sq. ft. vegetated “green” roof, ENERGY STAR® lighting, windows, and appliances, and in-floor radiant heating will make this residence extremely energy-efficient. The home will also be equipped with an energy monitor that displays energy input and output in real-time, a tool that will be key in helping homeowners modify their energy consumption habits.
The Zero Energy Idea House has been endorsed by Built Green® of King & Snohomish Counties and is receiving technical support from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America program. Major sponsors include Ambiente European Tile Design, Clinkston Brunner Architects, ecohaus, Frog On A Log Parks, Insulspan, Klip BioTechnologies, Northwest Property Imaging, Triad Associates and Northwest ENERGY STAR® Homes. 425 Magazine is providing media support to the Zero Energy Idea House.

Labels: