How Upgrading to a Zero Home Could Save Money on Electricity

Recently, a technology company built the world’s first “zero home,” a home that produces more energy than it needs, allowing owners to save money on electricity. This three-story house is equipped with solar panels and a technology-driven automatic energy usage system that detects how much energy is produced at any given time. Based on the amount of energy available, the home’s technology automatically redirects energy to where it is needed most.

Theoretically, the energy efficient appliances and self-sufficient energy processes of the home would allow it to exist forever without needing any external electricity. The biggest hurdle to owning a zero home is the cost at approximately  $400,000.

If you have $400,000 to invest in a home, you may want to consider purchasing a “zero home” of your own. Imagine owning a home and not having to pay for electricity. Sounds nice right? Well, there may be a few downsides to the “zero home.” For example, the solar panel electricity generation has no backup source, so if you happen to get a string of inadequately sunny days, you could suffer from restricted or insufficient energy availability. Not to mention, it would be nearly impossible to build a solar-dependent “zero home” in a suburban area with lots of trees, or anywhere with limited sun exposure.

The “zero home” concept is enticing for anyone concerned with energy efficiency and saving money on electricity, however, there are a few kinks to work out before it becomes a stable enough concept to reach the mass market. In the meantime, compare your energy provider with Star Energy Partners and practice energy efficiency to lower your electricity bill.