Modular makes net-zero living an affordable reality

The solution for quality multi-unit housing that delivers on energy efficiency during production and after placement is being realized with off-site construction.

One recent example of effective energy-efficient construction is demonstrated by the Lancaster Net Zero Energy Live/Work Townhomes, developed by ZETA Communities, a company that provides design, modular manufacturing, construction management, and consulting services.
 

View pictures of the completed project
Today's building industry is dramatically impacted by the increasing cost of energy, inefficient building methods and the high cost or unavailability of capital. As a result, many forward-thinking developers and public agencies are seeking new options to build energy efficient, cost effective and highly durable buildings, while minimizing holding costs through reduced construction timeframes. The solution for quality multi-unit housing that delivers on energy efficiency during production and after placement is being realized with off-site construction.

Lancaster Townhomes are located in a colorful mixed industrial/artist/residential urban neighborhood near Oakland California. ZETA Communities completed the first net zero energy, urban infill, multifamily project in July 2009. Each of the two 1,540 square foot, zero lot line, live and work townhomes provide a ground floor work studio, 2-bedrooms, light-filled great rooms, decks and sustainable landscaping, in addition to one car parking garage.

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  Modular Living Room Tour Modular Office Tour modular master bedroom tour modular entry hall tour
  Kitchen/Living Office Master Bedroom Entry Hall

ZETA produced these net zero energy multifamily housing and mixed-use structures for sustainable communities via precision-built structures. Each is produced in a clean-tech off-site production facility, exceed the performance of site built at no additional cost while minimizing resources, waste and CO2 emissions.

ZETA’s first net zero energy live/work townhome achieved a LEED Platinum rating, a 240 Green Point Rating, and EPA’s highest indoor air rating, Indoor airPLUS. Additionally, this project has qualified for the DOE’s Builders Challenge Program that sets a high bar for building energy efficiency.

As a participant in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America Research Program, ZETA demonstrated with this project affordable solution to achieving net zero energy and LEED Platinum multifamily housing through advanced building energy systems and energy efficient technologies.

The homes are now in demonstration, being used for educational tours and study by the DOE, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, and Pacific Gas & Electric all in an effort to validate the net zero projected energy metrics:

factsheetProjected Energy Consumption 7852kWh/yr
Renewable Energy Production 7882kWh/yr
0 net energy use

Home Energy Rating (HERS) performed by RESNET certified rater to measure projected energy efficiency of ZETA’s demonstration unit.

 

 

 

 

 




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