Net-Zero Energy & Renewables
With alternative energy sources becoming more affordable, we are finally starting to wean ourselves off fossil fuels.
But as the industry expands, there are some growing pains. These systems open up new ways of thinking about our relationship to energy production and consumption, and they impact rating systems such as LEED and Passive House.
The resources found here provide guidance and a better understanding of topics like:
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net-zero energy
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thermal energy storage
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innovative battery systems
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fuel cells
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community solar
Net-Zero Energy & Renewables
Deep Dives
Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.
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Five Reasons to Be Optimistic About Solar Energy
Feature Article
Commercial-scale solar energy, buoyed by battery storage, is continuing to grow, redefining how we produce and use energy.
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Why Schools Are Embracing Net-Zero Energy
Feature Article
Schools are leading the way in net-zero energy, but some designers question whether these goals create the best learning environments.
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20 Ways to Advance Sustainability in the Next Four Years
Feature Article
In this age of political revolution and environmental urgency, it’s time to step back and take a look at priorities, challenges, and opportunities
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The Death and Rebirth of DC Power
Feature Article
Direct current is replacing AC in microgrids and other setups that maximize the efficiency of lighting, HVAC, and onsite renewables.
Quick Takes
Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.
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How RECs Work—and Why You Might Not Own Your Clean Energy
Primer
Even if you buy into a solar farm or host an array, someone else can claim the benefits. Here’s how to get what you expect.
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Islandable Solar-PV For Power Outages
Primer
With the right technology, a grid-connected solar-electric system can still provide electricity during power outages.
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From Sunlight to Electricity: How Solar Cells Work
Primer
Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert sunlight directly into electricity with no moving parts.
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Comparing Fuel Costs
Primer
One would think comparing the costs of different heating fuels would be simple, but figuring out the amount heat available in a given quantity of fuel-and the associated cost-can be tricky.
Product Guidance
Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.
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Photovoltaics and Their Environmental Performance
Product Review
Renewable energy systems, particularly photovoltaic (PV) panels, have come under attack for using toxic materials and having a high carbon footprint. The truth is more complicated. -
Integrated PV Inverter and Electric Vehicle Charger
Product Review
SolarEdge’s photovoltaic inverter and electric vehicle charging station reduces the number of mechanical systems and simplifies installation.
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BuildingGreen Announces Top 10 Products for 2017
Product Review
Our innovative Top 10 product selections reduce stormwater and wastewater, improve efficiency and IAQ, and contain fewer hazardous materials.
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DC Power Supply Integrates AC and Renewables
Product Review
Nextek PhD provides AC-to-DC power at the building scale, integrates renewable energy, and can even save on first costs.
In The News
We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.
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Three Green Actions to Take While Occupants Work from Home
News Analysis
Now is a perfect time for property owners and managers to pursue these major sustainability initiatives.
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DOE to Test Grid-Harmonization Tech in the Real World
News Brief
Seven new “proving grounds” will test the effectiveness of new energy-efficiency and grid-harmonization strategies.
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24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Is the New Net-Zero
News Brief
Des Moines, Iowa, joins Google in aiming for 24/7 carbon-free electricity—a target that necessitates managing energy loads in buildings.
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Ed Mazria: An Interview with the AIA Gold Medal Winner for 2021
News Analysis
We spoke with Ed Mazria, AIA Gold Medal winner, about everything from the 1970s energy crisis to the current climate crisis—and heard a message of hope.
Perspective
Thought-provoking opinions from the most trusted minds in sustainability.
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Do Solar Panels Need to be Cleaned?
Blog Post
The accumulation of dust, pollen, and bird droppings affects the energy production of a PV array. This blog post looks into how important cleaning of solar panels really is.
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Zero-Energy Buildings for All
Blog Post
There is increasing movement for buildings to reach net-zero energy, but they can't do it alone. Here's how to fix the system.
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Net Zero Energy Is Achievable: Here’s How
Blog Post
The concept of the net zero energy (NZE) is a mature one, with established technology providing a clear path, especially for low- and mid-rise buildings.
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On the Path to Net Zero
Op-Ed
At Leonard Farm, we’ve taken another big step in our quest for net-zero energy and net-zero carbon—but we’re not there yet!
Learning Resources
A wide range of education options, with automatic reporting for AIA and GBCI.
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Five Reasons to Be Optimistic About Solar Energy
Feature Article
Commercial-scale solar energy, buoyed by battery storage, is continuing to grow, redefining how we produce and use energy.
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Why Schools Are Embracing Net-Zero Energy
Feature Article
Schools are leading the way in net-zero energy, but some designers question whether these goals create the best learning environments.
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The Death and Rebirth of DC Power
Feature Article
Direct current is replacing AC in microgrids and other setups that maximize the efficiency of lighting, HVAC, and onsite renewables.
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How to Succeed with the Living Building Challenge: 12 Teams Share Tips
Feature Article
The bar is high—that’s obvious—but watch out for some surprising pitfalls. Here’s how dedicated teams have tackled Living Building challenges.
