The Zero Energy 2 (ZE2) house is a duplex with 1736sf of living area for unit 1 and 1224sf of living area for unit 2. The building envelope features a highly reflective white metal roof and light colored exterior walls to reflect much of the incident solar radiation . Large overhangs and porches help to shade the double-glazed high-performance windows from the sun for most of the day during the cooling season. All of these passive solar features minimize the energy required to condition the home for comfortable living conditions.

The active solar components of the home provide the energy to displace the power used from the local utility and create a zero net draw from the utility. A building integrated photovoltaic system comprised of 28 amorphous silicon modules bonded to the metal roof panels is positioned on the west facing roof with a tilt angle of approximately 20 degrees. The system is connected to the grid through a net-metering agreement with the City Of New Smyrna Beach Utilities Commission. A small battery bank provides back up power to critical loads during times that utility service is not available.

• Performance Data for the Zero Energy Homes

Unit 1 and Unit 2 are similar in construction of the building envelope but the appliances and mechanical systems are different. All of the appliances in Unit 1 of the home are energy efficient including a two stage 15 SEER energy efficient air conditioner. Unit 2 has appliances that are considered 'standard' models including a 10 SEER air conditioner.

The PV system includes a battery bank that functions as a UPS for critical loads in the home.

The Florida Solar Energy Center is a Zero Energy Homes partner that has significant experience in the design and construction of zero net energy homes. A second-generation Zero Energy home has been constructed in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Many of the lessons learned during the design and construction of previous projects have helped to maximize the cost:benefit ratio of the various components. Analysis of data collected during this and other projects also provides vital information about the actual performance and interactions between different systems.