July 26, 2012: Technology, Cost Decreases Expected to Fuel Spread of Net Zero Energy Buildings
BOULDER, Colo. — Multiple forces are driving the construction industry toward the goal of producing zero energy buildings, i.e., buildings that produce as much energy as they consume through on-site and renewable energy systems. Many of the technologies needed to deliver zero energy buildings, such as high-efficiency HVAC systems, have already been developed. According to a report from Pike Research, over the next few decades, cost decreases in existing technologies and innovation in emerging technologies, driven by government regulations, will help make zero energy building more attainable.
Worldwide revenue from zero energy buildings will grow rapidly over the next 20 years, Pike Research forecasts, reaching almost $690 billion by 2020 and nearly $1.3 trillion by 2035.