Toward a Zero Energy Home: A Complete Guide to Energy Self-Sufficiency at Home

by Scott Gibson, Scott Gibson

A Zero Energy Home (ZEH) – a home that produces as much energy as it consumes – is an idea whose time has come! Authors David Johnston and Scott Gibson (Green from the Ground Up) explore the design and construction of self-sufficient houses from start to finish. They make the case for a ZEH; cite climate and geographic challenges; describe exactly how to go about building an energy-efficient home; and feature ten houses that were built for zero energy living. With unequaled knowledge and a passion for the subject, the authors walk readers through the process of building and living in a truly green home.

Genres: Green, Self Help

256 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2010

Reviews

[ofits · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know that I would call this a "complete" guide to "energy self-sufficiency at home" (perhaps including the resources and further reading in the index), and the case studies were heavily skewed toward architects with more money than sense (which the authors admit in the final chapter), but this was still a very thought-provoking read that got my creative juices flowing. Nothing in this book was new to me, except perhaps the electric radiant flooring, but it is still important to get a refresher every now and then. This edition was from 2010, so I would be very interested to see what has changed in the industry in 9 years.

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gives alternatives to start exploring what you need and the choices you need to make.

[Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was interesting, though it was less practical than philosophically motivated. It also didn't give a thorough review of alternative building material. Still, its focus on analysis and the means of testing is helpful.

[Maryann · Rating 1 out of 5]

If I was building a house from the ground, I think I would of liked a whole lote better

[Eric Gittins]

Informative . Some content does not apply in our climate, however, a lot of good content.