Sustainable technology is taking center stage as homebuilders produce innovations that represent industry milestones. In fact, 2011 brought one of the most significant advancements to impact the American lifestyle– a net-zero production home that can create as much energy as it consumes.
Last year, there were fewer than 100 net-zero homes in the nation, with the vast majority being either high-end, custom-built homes or showcase homes used only for display purposes.
In a complete reinvention of the American home, Meritage Homes took a leadership role in creating more sustainable homes—–including the net-zero home—to reduce homebuyer energy costs, as well as the environmental impact. What makes Meritage’s net-zero home so unique? Unlike other net-zero homes in the marketplace today, Meritage’s net-zero home was designed, built and sold at a price competitive with the production home market.
“So many people have said that net-zero homes are impossible to do cost-effectively,” said C.R. Herro, vice president of environmental affairs for Meritage Homes. “We knew it was possible if you challenged the status quo, and the net-zero home illustrates how new homes can and should be built in the future to maximize energy efficiency.”
Meritage believes that sustainable homes must be built from the ground up, with thoughtful design, quality construction, new building techniques, and advanced technologies. As all of these components work together, they effectively reduce energy use and the accompanying utility bills.
Bruce Ploeser, his wife and four children bought the first Meritage net-zero home sold in the Verrado community in Buckeye, Arizona. They moved into it in April—just before Earth Day, coincidentally.
“We are absolutely thrilled with our home and the entire purchase,” said Bruce Ploeser. “The difference is that this home performs like a champion to help us slash energy costs every single month. Meritage has provided us value that goes far beyond the purchase price.”
The heart of net-zero homes’ sustainable features includes:
• Echo renewable energy systems
• Spray foam insulation
• Conditioned attic spaces
• Staggered 6-inch wall framing
• Low-E2 windows
• ENERGY STAR appliances
• Advanced lighting
The Meritage net-zero home is setting a new standard in home building that answers demand for both energy efficiency and cost savings. To learn more, visit meritagehomes.com.
