Zero Net Energy Homes
The basics of a zero net energy home is that its produced energy is equal to or greater than it consumes. The ability of the house to be zero-energy is primarily dependent on three elements:
- Advanced shell design
- Super high efficiency heating system
- Photovoltaic power generation
The three elements work in unison and are required to create as much energy as is consumed in a viable economic package. The design team was committed to using easily replicable construction techniques that could be accomplished for not more than 115% of conventional construction cost. A key element of uniqueness to the Rose house is that in addition to demonstrating technical innovation, it is all about affordable and appealing design that is accessible to the general population.
The 3.3KW Photovoltaic Array of Sharp solar PV panels is a grid tied system that provides more energy than required at times and less than required in others. The grid acts as a big electrical storage bank that is required to make the house function properly. During start-up of motors and electrical equipment much more than 3.3 KW is required and the grid provides that extra capacity.
As seen by the following diagram, overall during the year, the house will supply more energy to the grid than it has consumed. Since all appliances and the heating systems work on electrical energy the house is a Zero-Net Energy house. Solar PV power is the blue contribution below the line and the various household loads are above the line.
