Position Paper v1.1 - 1+3+9

Modern Zero-Energy retrofits can apply to homes that predate active heating and cooling systems.

Houses constructed before the advent of active systems like air conditioning took advantage of passive systems that were predicated on localized climate conditions. In a sense, these older homes are zero energy homes. In today's modern age, it is important to reduce energy consumption, have a low carbon footprint, and exist harmoniously with the environment.

With no air conditioning, and possibly no electricity depending on time of construction, homes had to rely on siting and construction methods in order to provide comfortable living. Contemporary homes use modern technologies to create what are essentially hermetically sealed boxes, that blast cold air in the summer, or hot air in the winter. Though having the ability to be leaders in energy conservation, the majority of newer homes are just as inefficient as older homes that still use systems (such as oil heat and "dirty" coal) that are inefficient and detrimental to the environment. Updating older homes with new technology while still maintaining the character of the house would bring homes nearly a century old or older into the modern age. A zero energy retrofit for these older homes would show that older design strategies can work in conjunction with modern materials and technologies. Additionally, it can highlight the fact that zero energy homes need not look futuristic, but can blend into any house or building without drawing attention to itself. Varying levels of retrofits can exist, from simple home improvements all the way up to zero energy, zero emissions full retrofits. By going off-grid or by producing more environmentally friendly energy than the house needs to remain self-sustainable, the house can give back to the energy grid and help the community. These strategies have the potential to be implemented in individual suburban homes, or in tightly packed urban communities.