Peter Darlington of Solar Homes Inc. converted his high-emission 1985 detached single-family home to net-zero ready by making the building super-insulated and airtight and installing high-performing windows, energy-efficient lighting and appliances.
When the deep retrofit was done, Peter took the project to net-zero by installing solar panels on his garage.
After a year of monitoring, Peter confirmed the solar array produced slightly more energy than he and his family consumed. The solar panels powered the entire home, including lighting, appliances, electrical outlets, hot-water heating, as well as space heating and cooling.
In 2018, Peter acquired a 2014 Chevy Volt and installed more solar panels on the property. The vehicle is entirely solar-powered and carbon neutral.
The project was the Canadian Home Builder's Association's first CHBA Labelled Net Zero Renovation.
