Industry veterans continue to design and build homes like it's 1980 and hope to cost-effectively achieve ZNE by adding lots of (expensive) insulation, much more efficient (expensive) HVAC, and a whole lot of (very expensive) PV. All of which score well in the energy compliance models - but isn't the most cost effective approach to ZNE. Practitioners of high performance ZNE have discarded this traditional approach for one that creates more with less, favors sustainability over waste, and durability over disposability.
The High Performance Advanced Framing approach is to utilize:
Scrutinize engineering - Setting a goal to not exceed a 13% framing factor.
Enclosure scrutinization - Creating the most efficient enclosure by minimizing area
Grid layouts for optimizing use of materials and minimizing waste
Locally sourced and environmentally friendly materials
Structural elements in ways that perform multiple functions
Participants in this session will see real world examples of brand new high performance ZNE homes with the lowest documented framing factors (% of wood in exterior walls) in CA contrasted with traditional new construction, and measured performance data from these high performance homes with incredible comfort settings. Those that are curious about how to convert their designs into high performance homes will leave understanding the reasons and pathways more clearly.
