From Zero Energy Design (ZED), the Solar Decathlon Sustainable House in Ithaca, New York, was the result of a competition held by the Department of Energy at Cornell University. The ZED team led the Cornell University Solar Decathlon Team in the challenge which called on teams to construct, disassemble and transport the home, which would not only be aesthetically pleasing but energy efficient and cost efficient as well. This modern residential design meets the criteria for a zero-energy residence designed for a young couple with integrated indoor and outdoor living. Clearly this 800-sq.-ft., one-bedroom, one-bathroom design focuses more on function than it does on space, but ZED have managed to include a number of innovative sustainable technologies including Zero Plus Energy; photovoltaic system; solar thermal system; structural insulated panels; a proprietary entropy recovery ventilation system; low to no-VOC materials; a permeable driveway; rain-water recycling and water-efficient fixtures; and rapidly renewable materials throughout. Zero Energy Design.
