Glossary · Energy, bills & ratings
Net zero / net-zero ready home
Also called: net zero home · net-zero energy · net zero ready · zero energy ready · zero energy home
A net-zero home produces as much energy as it uses in a year, usually with solar; a net-zero ready home is built so it could, once panels go on.
What it means
These homes start with a very efficient building envelope and equipment, then add on-site renewable energy to cover what's left. Ready homes meet the efficiency requirements without the renewables yet. Existing homes can get there through deep energy retrofits.
Why it matters in an audit
Net-zero labels give a clear target for deep retrofits and new builds, and an audit shows how far your home is from it.
Typical numbers
Reference values with their sources. Your energy advisor’s report gives the figure for your own house.
| What | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| CHBA Net Zero Home Labelling Program | Net Zero and Net Zero Ready labels for new homes and renovations; 45 labelled renovations reported | chba.ca ↗ |
In Canada
The Canadian Home Builders' Association runs Net Zero and Net Zero Ready labels for both new homes and renovations.