1975 Calgary NE bungalow: Better than expected

Project Description

Getting to Net Zero

Over the first year of operation, the 9.84 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system produced 9,203 kWh of electricity while consuming only 8,164 kWh, resulting in a net surplus of 1,039 kWh, equivalent to 3.74 GJ. Notably, peak production occurred between May and August, with exports consistently above 1,200 kWh per month, while winter months saw higher consumption but still maintained export activity, particularly in February with 189 kWh sent back to the grid.

The homeowner was able to disconnect the natural gas two weeks after the heat pumps were installed. The home is now emissions neutral.

Other improvements:

Homeowner made several other energy efficiency improvements, including these upgrades:

• Switched to LED lighting
• Upgraded many appliances (changed from standard electric range to induction range, and plasma to LED TV)
• Went to one fridge instead of two
• Installed thermal window coverings

Lessons Learned

The homeowner was concerned that switching to a heat pump hot water tank would create too much cold air in the basement. The HVAC supplier added venting from the hot water tank to vent outside. The venting can be switched during hot weather to dump into the blower to help cool the house.