New homes typically achieve net zero energy status as a result of rigorous planning to ensure that all the building components work together harmoniously. Those components usually include proper insulation, high-efficiency windows, solar photovoltaic (PV) and/or thermal systems, duct sealing, and more often than not, geothermal systems.
Geothermal systems can significantly reduce energy consumption in a traditionally built house, but when installed in conjunction with a tight thermal envelope, they can help a homeowner procure the coveted net zero energy label.