Explore a $1.1 Million 'Zero Emissions' Home Inside

Discover a remarkable $1.1 million ‘zero emissions’ home that exemplifies sustainable living. This innovative residence features advanced eco-friendly technologies and design elements aimed at minimizing environmental impact. With a focus on energy efficiency and renewable resources, the home offers luxury without compromising the planet. Join us for an inside look at how modern architecture can harmoniously blend comfort and sustainability.

Federal officials indicate that real estate plays a crucial role in achieving the climate goals set by the U.S.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, residential and commercial buildings contribute to 31% of the nation's greenhouse gas emissions when accounting for indirect emissions, such as those from electricity use. This figure surpasses emissions from other sectors like transportation and agriculture.

To address residential emissions, the Biden administration has implemented several policies.

The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, provides financial incentives, including tax breaks and rebates, for homeowners who enhance their homes' energy efficiency. Additionally, the White House recently released guidelines for buildings to qualify as “zero emissions,” which means they must be energy-efficient, devoid of onsite emissions from energy use, and powered entirely by clean energy, as stated by the Department of Energy.

Morgan Wojciechowski, 33, is one of the first homeowners to receive the federal “zero emissions” designation, awarded by the third-party firm Pearl Certification. Wojciechowski, along with her husband Casey and their three dogs—Dixie, Bo, and Charlie—moved into their newly constructed home in Williamsburg, Virginia, in August 2023. Wojciechowski, who serves as the president of Healthy Communities, a local real estate developer specializing in sustainable building, spoke with CNBC about her new home, its financial advantages, and ways for consumers to upgrade their homes for improved efficiency.

The following conversation has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Greg Iacurci: What does it mean for your home to hold the “zero emissions” title?

Morgan Wojciechowski: It means the home is exceptionally efficient and entirely electric, which are key aspects of the White House's definition.

The third point is that we participate in the green energy program with our utility provider, Dominion. I generate solar energy, and any surplus goes back to the grid. Additionally, the power I receive from the grid is clean and sustainable, costing me about $10 more a month for this clean energy.

GI: How much did it cost to build your home?

MW: Approximately $1.1 million.

GI: What is the size of your house?

MW: It’s 5,400 square feet.

It’s a large home, but it's not typical of what most people are doing. My house was a personal project because I’m passionate about sustainability and wanted it to be my forever home. However, a more replicable option would be what Healthy Communities builds at Walnut Farm, which is around 1,500 square feet and priced at $433,000.

GI: Can you detail your home's estimated savings?

MW: We project our utility bills to be about $917 annually with solar panels, which is roughly $80 per month.

The annual savings amount to $7,226 compared to an average U.S. home, based on assessments from TopBuild Home Services, thanks to the home's efficiency and solar power.

Without the solar production, my savings would be around $5,431 each year. The solar offsets the costs.

GI: What do you mean by "solar offsets"?

MW: You generate energy in your home, and any excess is sent back to Dominion. These credits are stored in an account and then used to offset your bill during the next billing cycle. This process is known as net metering.

GI: So, the power company compensates you?

MW: Yes, those credits are applied to your next bill, reducing your total utility costs and contributing to your savings.

Solar panels are most beneficial when paired with an energy-efficient, all-electric home.

GI: Why is that?

MW: It’s essential to have a home that is either energy-efficient from the start or has been retrofitted—by installing higher-quality windows, for example, or adding insulation—to reduce the number of solar panels needed. This ensures a quicker return on investment.

GI: Does that make solar energy more appealing?

MW: Without energy-efficient upgrades to an existing home or if a new home lacks sufficient energy efficiency, you’ll require more solar panels to compensate, which can make the project less appealing financially.

Solar must align with the home's characteristics; otherwise, it might be better to focus on other improvements, like updating windows, enhancing insulation, or upgrading mechanical systems.

There are numerous options for consumers, and they don’t have to implement all changes at once. You don’t need solar panels to achieve a zero emissions status; you just need an energy-efficient, all-electric home and to purchase renewable energy from your utility.

This approach is quite accessible; many can participate at their own sustainability level.

GI: How should people begin?

MW: I recommend starting with windows and doors; it's a straightforward upgrade. After making that change, you’ll likely notice improvements in efficiency.

Many older homes have outdated windows that allow drafts. Think of your house as an envelope that you want to seal effectively.

I would suggest insulation as the next step.

Many older homes have HVAC systems and ductwork located in the attic. By insulating it, you create a conditioned space, preventing those systems from working excessively to maintain comfortable temperatures. This contributes to better energy efficiency.

There are also tax incentives available for energy-efficient upgrades, making them more appealing financially.

GI: What if someone is a renter?

MW: It depends on the specific rental situation. Changing someone else's mind can be more challenging. However, once you own your home, you gain more control over improvements.

In the meantime, renters can be mindful of their energy consumption. Simple actions, like turning off lights, can make a significant difference. Even in an efficient home, I use timers to prevent energy waste. This is a straightforward action anyone can take.

For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com

Source: CNBC‍