Under Construction! Zero Energy Lab Home in Pittsburgh
The Alliance's Zero Energy Lab Home program is a multi-year
research initiative focused on developing design, construction and
financial approaches to deliver affordable, zero energy homes at
the production level throughout the U.S.
Back in March of this year, the Alliance, IBACOS and S&A
Homes broke ground on the Pittsburgh Lab Home, which explores
strategies for cold climate construction using methods and building
materials available now. The four-bedroom home is based on one of
S&A's existing models.
Several national product manufacturers and material suppliers,
and local trade contractors have committed to participating in this
research effort, including:
Trade Contractors: Albert L. Bauer Plumbing,
Inc, Collective Efforts, Iron City Excavating, McMurray Cooling and
Heating, Nittany Geothermal, O.C. Cluss, Rkb Electric & Supply
LLC, Stone & Co.
Product Manufacturers and Material Suppliers:
Carrier, Century Kitchens, Dow Building Solutions, DuPont, Fypon,
GAF/Elk, Glen Gery Brick, Gorell Windows and Doors, IDC-Honeywell
Solar, iLevel, Johns Manville, Kohler, Lutron, Norandex, Progress
Lighting, Protecto Wrap, Shaw Industries, Stirling Technology,
Therma-Tru Corp, Uponor, Whirlpool
This and all other Zero Energy Lab Homes will be evaluated
against three criteria:
- Performance (energy, safety, health, durability, comfort and
environmental friendliness)
- Ease of Construction (material availability, trade
capabilities, and installation time)
- Cost-effectiveness (affordability to build, own, and operate,
and value over time)
With coordination and guidance from IBACOS, the Alliance will
target zero energy, determine what strategies are successful, and
identify any barriers to wide-scale adoption at the production
level. The home will remain uninhabited for three years, while its
performance is monitored using simulations of typical home
occupants. It will also be leveraged as an educational tool for the
industry and consumers.
Watch this site for more information on the project and our
partners.