What exactly is a Net Zero Home?

Hearing more and more about net zero homes? This concept has been growing in popularity, with many homeowners looking to do their part for the environment and keep their costs down. 

But what exactly does it mean? A net zero home is a residential building that is designed and constructed to produce as much energy as it consumes over a year. In other words, it achieves a balance between the energy it uses and the renewable energy it generates.

What does a net zero home look like? 

A net zero home will usually have a combination of solar panels, excellent insultation and ventilation which is supported by using efficient appliances. By utilising only renewable energy sources like solar panels, net zero homes can easily generate their own electricity. 

The benefits of living in a net zero home

Reduce your home’s carbon footprint

You can dramatically reduce your carbon footprint with a net zero home because it produces renewable energy onsite, eliminating the need to use traditional fossil fuel-based power sources. 

Lower your home’s energy costs

Once you make the decision to invest in clean energy for your home, you will notice it's expensive at first, but the costs will reduce over time. Once your net zero home is properly set up, it can lead to significantly reduced or even zero energy bills.

Achieve energy independence

Net zero homes are less reliant on energy grids. This means that a net zero home often doesn’t have to worry about power outages, local grid issues, or rising energy prices.

Increase your home’s value

Investing in such equipment for your home can greatly increase its market value. As Irish consumers show an increased interest in the subject, a net zero home can prove very attractive to potential buyers should you decide to sell in future.

The cost factor: Are net zero homes expensive?

It’s true that net zero homes can have high upfront construction costs, or retrofitting costs depending on the current state of your home. These can include everything from design and planning to higher-quality materials. But it’s important to look at the big picture. If you own a relatively new home, it can be a worthwhile project to move your house towards net zero. Between lower energy bills, government grants and incentives, and increased resale value, it can be a very lucrative investment.

Insuring a net zero home 

If you choose to opt for a net zero home, insuring it is much the same process as insuring any other home.

First, you must determine the value of your net-zero home – not just of the physical structure, but of any specialised energy-saving additions, like solar panels.

At Aviva, we’re passionate about our ambitious goal to be net zero by 2040, including purchasing 100% renewable electricity tariffs for our Dublin, Cork and Galway offices. 

Interested in how Aviva can help you gain peace of mind over your home for years to come? Check out Aviva’s home insurance options and get a 20% discount just for buying online.¹