Net Zero Energy Building Certification: 5 Imperatives You Must Meet

By Vicki Zambito

The world of green building has another certification to add to its portfolio of sustainable stamps-of-approval. The International Living Future Institute (ILFI) is launching a Net Zero Energy Building Certification program based off its popular Living Building Challenge. The ILFI defines net zero energy as “One hundred percent of the building’s energy needs on a net annual basis must be supplied by on-site renewable energy.”

According to the ILFI’s website, to earn Net Zero Energy Building Certification, the requirements of the following five Living Building Challenge Imperatives must be met:

1. Limits to Growth (in part): Curbs the building’s contribution to the effects of sprawled development, which undermines the positive impact of achieving net zero energy building operation.

2. Net Zero Energy: Serves as the primary focus of Net Zero Energy Building Certification.

3. Rights to Nature: Ensures that the building does not preclude another building from achieving net zero energy operation as a result of excessive shading.

4 & 5. Beauty + Spirit and Inspiration + Education: Underscore the notion that renewable energy systems can be incorporated into a building in ways that are attractive and inspiring.

To learn more, visit: http://www.living-future.org/netzero/details.html