A performance standard for buildings that offset their total grid energy consumption by generating an equal or greater amount of renewable energy on site. Achieving this status requires rigorous insulation, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and active generation like rooftop solar arrays. Builders track the power draw against the power production over a full calendar year to verify compliance with green building certifications.
We need to upgrade the envelope insulation if the client still wants this to be a net-zero build.
Achieving net-zero usually depends more on aggressive air sealing and thermal breaks than on simply adding massive solar arrays to a standard frame.
Also heard as
- zero energy
Related terms
BIPV
Building-integrated photovoltaics, solar power materials that replace conventional building materials.
Encapsulation
The process of sealing off hazardous materials or isolating a building space from moisture.
As-built
A revised set of drawings submitted upon completion of a project to reflect all changes made during construction.