A net-zero home uses less energy than it produces on an annual basis and is completely independent from the electric power grid. This can be accomplished by installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system that generates as much electricity as the house consumes, combined with insulation and air sealing that dramatically reduces the need for electrical use.

The Cork Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA has begun renovation work on a 1974 building to develop Ireland’s first Net-Zero Energy testbed and to evaluate actual performance against design benchmarks. This exemplar project will be a valuable tool for the development of new construction and retrofit approaches to energy efficiency, including the implementation of renewable energy systems like PV.

Building a Net-Zero Energy Attic: Insulation Strategies for Sustainability

During the design phase, it is important to plan the location of ventilation ducts within the thermal boundary. Leaving them in an attic space is not recommended, and running a duct across an uninsulated attic ceiling results in significant losses. Several alternative construction techniques are available that can significantly improve attic insulation and sealing, while containing the ducts within the conditioned space. These include soffits, false ceilings, and insulated airtight chases.

Using energy-efficient materials, such as Fox Blocks and sustainable products like Truegrid Permeable Pavers, helps lower a home’s environmental impact and can also qualify homeowners for tax incentives. These tax incentives can be a great way to offset some of the initial cost of installing these high-performance products and systems.

Georgia Insulation Atlanta
Atlanta, GA 30349
(470) 764-7083