Connecticut-based energy services companies Eversource and Avangrid subsidiaries United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas, and Connecticut Natural Gas recently announced the winners of their 10th annual Energize Connecticut Zero Energy Challenge, a statewide design and build showcase for single-family and multifamily homes.
In this nationally recognized initiative, Connecticut builders and architects are challenged to construct super energy-efficient homes that consume little to no energy by using sustainable building practices.
“These Zero Energy Challenge participants have proven again that net-zero homes are attainable, aesthetically pleasing, and, most of all, affordable,” says Penni Conner, Eversource senior vice president and chief customer officer. “Congratulations to this year’s Zero Energy Challenge winners for continuing to demonstrate the importance of building super-efficient homes and helping Connecticut meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals.”
The challenge uses the RESNET rating standards to determine each completed home’s HERS Index and analyzes the technology and techniques it took to build the near-zero energy homes. Common features include photovoltaic systems or solar energy systems, insulated concrete forms, structural insulated panels, and geothermal heat and air conditioning.
Each home receives incentives for building with advanced technologies and may be awarded prizes up to $5,000 depending on final HERS ratings, affordability of construction, and net operating costs.
The 10th annual Zero Energy Challenge winners are:
Overall Winner
Project: Debari Residence, Preston, Connecticut
Builder: Nick Lehto – Lehto Design/Build, Danielson, Connecticut
Best Overall Envelope Winner
Project: Peterle Residence, Pawcatuck, Connecticut
Builder: Bogaert Construction, Essex, Connecticut
Lowest HERS Winner
Project homeowner and builder: Sadler Residence, Bolton, Connecticut
Lowest HERS without Renewables and Lowest Cost/Square Foot Winner
Project: Walton Residence, Hartford, Connecticut
Builder: Hartford Habitat for Humanity, Hartford, Connecticut
Peter Harding Service Award
Established in 2018, the Peter Harding Service Award recognizes developers who are dedicated to building high-performance homes in Connecticut. BPC Green Builders in Wilton, Connecticut, founded by brothers Mike and Chris Trolle, was selected as award recipients for this year.
“The Zero Energy Challenge is always inspiring and a great showcase of the talent we have right here in Connecticut,” says Frank Reynolds, president of UIL Holdings Corp. “I commend all of this year’s Zero Energy Challenge participants for their innovative designs and commitment to prioritizing super energy efficiency and near-zero energy home construction.”