Zonda - Resource Library

Off Grid Homes, or homes that are completely independent of traditional utilities like the electric grid, are an increasingly popular design option. There are several motivations for an Off Grid Home design, such as a remote location or very expensive costs for a grid connection.

The energy systems for an Off Grid Home differ significantly from those used in most grid-connected homes, and typically incorporate renewables, battery storage, and a back-up power generator. The selection of appliances and other energy-consuming devices in an Off Grid Home is a detailed process that relies on energy efficiency, non-electric alternatives for thermal loads, and careful design of the home’s envelope. This course discusses all of these issues.

As the most-visited city in the United States, Orlando is uniquely positioned to influence environmental stewardship in communities around the world. From meeting the foundational needs of local residents to providing an enchanting tourism destination in a changing climate, we describe how to leverage local characteristics to enhance sustainable efforts.

This course provides an overview of residential zero net energy (ZNE) homes and gives designers a sense of key issues and strategies for ZNE projects. It explores how ZNE projects may be defined along with the implications of the different definitions of "zero".

The course also characterizes the current ZNE housing market, the general design approach to ZNEs and the opportunities to integrate mixed-fuel home designs in ZNE projects.