Eco-friendly house creates own power

There aren’t many homes like this on the market.

Matter of fact, this is probably the only one.

Avalon Master Builder has put its Discovery 4 House – the company’s first entirely net-zero home – up for sale.

So, what is a net-zero home?

Measured annually, a net-zero home generates at least the same amount of energy as it consumes, says president and CEO Ryan Scott.

“Discovery 4 relies entirely on its own extensive solar and other renewable power systems,” he says.

Located on a corner lot at 4 Elgin Meadows Circle S.E., the home is listed for $564,000, including basement development, garage, landscaping, appliance package and GST.

It is ready for immediate occupancy.

The two-storey, 1,500-square-foot home has solar thermal heating, a photovoltaic panel system, three bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths, along with an energy-efficient appliance package in that includes a washer and dryer.

Floors on the main are reclaimed hardwood and tile. The fully developed basement includes a family room, full bath, and one bedroom.

It was built in 2010 by Avalon in partnership with SAIT, Climate Change Central and Brookfield Residential.

“By improving the efficiency of windows, walls, attic and basement, the Discovery 4 house proves that living simply, and finding your energy balance can be achieved on any home,” says Scott.

Such a tight building envelope needs good ventilation to remove unwanted moisture, pollutants and allergens.

Because Canadians spend up to 90 per cent of their time indoors, a home with poor indoor air quality can contribute to the development of asthma, headaches, congestion and nausea.

A high-performance insulated and sealed building envelope combined with a proper heating/cooling system creates a healthier, more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

The Discovery 4 House heat recovery and ventilation system (HRV) improves indoor air quality by continually exchanging air throughout the entire house.

“Solar energy is renewable energy with zero greenhouse gas emissions and unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is available just about everywhere on earth,” says Scott. “The best part is that this source of energy is free and immune to rising energy prices.”

While the Discovery 4 House is on the market, construction continues on Discovery 5 at the SAIT campus.

Plans are for the home to be taken to drywall stage and then transported to its new location in Altadore, where it will be completed.

Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/health/friendly+house+creates+power/5381984/story.html#ixzz1btoP754k