Net Zero vs Net Zero Ready: which one are you building?

The two terms get used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing, and the difference is mostly about renewables.

Net Zero Ready

A Net Zero Ready home is built with a high-performance envelope and efficient mechanical systems, enough that it could reach net zero energy if renewables were added. The insulation, airtightness, windows and heating are all there. The solar is not yet.

Net Zero

A Net Zero home does everything a Net Zero Ready home does, plus enough on-site renewable generation, usually solar, to offset its annual energy use. Over a year, it produces as much clean energy as it consumes.

Why build Net Zero Ready first?

• Cost timing. The envelope is the hard part and has to be done during construction. Solar can be added later when budget allows.
• Roof and electrical prep. A Net Zero Ready build should still plan roof orientation, structural capacity and electrical provisions for a future array.
• Incentives. Programs and rebates for the two can differ.

What Komado does either way

We model the design early so the envelope and mechanical choices hit the target efficiently, review construction, run the blower-door test, and complete the verification and label. For Net Zero we also size the renewable system. See Net Zero new homes.