With rising energy costs, environmental concerns, and growing awareness of sustainable living, there’s no better time to invest in or build a Net Zero Home. The Vancouver Zero Emission Building Bylaw makes this opportunity even more appealing, offering up to 19% additional floor space, currently only possible for building permit applications received before the end of 2025.
A Net Zero Home is modelled by an Energy Advisor to determine how much energy (electricity) is required annually to operate. By providing renewable energy (most commonly solar) that is equal to the amount of energy required Net Zero is achieved.
What is a Net Zero Home?
- Energy Efficiency: Built with advanced materials and techniques to minimize energy consumption. (Ex: lighting, air handling and air tightness, roof and exterior insulation, high-performance windows, etc)
- Renewable Energy: Solar panels are most commonly used to generate energy for heating, cooling, and powering appliances. (Wind and Geothermal are other forms of renewable energy sources)
- Carbon Neutrality: The home achieves a zero-carbon footprint by balancing energy production and usage without the use of fossil fuels.
Why Build a Net Zero Home?
- Energy Savings: Generate your own power and reduce reliance on external energy sources, resulting in lower utility bills.
- Comfort: Enjoy consistent indoor temperatures, quieter living spaces, and improved air quality.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to combating climate change.
- Added $ Value: Net Zero Homes are future-ready, increasing your property’s resale value and aligning with growing demand for sustainable housing.
- Design Incentives (specific to City of Vancouver builds):
- Under the City of Vancouver’s Zero Emission Building Bylaw, Net Zero Homes can qualify for up to 19% more floor space until December 31, 2025.
- For example, a duplex on a standard lot can increase from 2,812 sq. ft. to 3,346 sq. ft., allowing for larger, more functional living spaces.
Why Now?
With rising energy costs, environmental concerns, and growing awareness of sustainable living, there’s no better time to invest in a Net Zero Home. Programs like the Vancouver Zero Emission Building Bylaw make it even more enticing with additional floor area incentives that are set to expire at the end of 2025.
By building a Net Zero Home, you’re not just investing in a house—you’re creating a healthier, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly lifestyle that benefits you and future generations.
Ready to make the shift? Contact Averra today, Vancouver’s leading Certified Net Zero builder and take the next step toward sustainable living.