Atmos Energy and Habit for Humanity Mississippi Capital Area (HFHMCA) today unveiled a zero net energy (ZNE) home at a dedication ceremony in Jackson. Showcasing the efficiency, reliability and affordability of natural gas, this home was designed and built to meet green building standards and certifications with rooftop photovoltaic solar panels, high-efficiency ENERGY STAR natural gas appliances, top-rated insulation and windows, and other advanced weatherization features to improve energy efficiency.
“Having the first zero net energy home in Mississippi be a Habitat home is a wonderful gift made possible by Atmos,” said Merrill McKewen, HFHMCA Executive Director.
A zero net energy home is designed to produce as much energy as it consumes over the course of a year, which results in net zero energy consumption. ZNE homes leverage high efficiency natural gas heating and water heating appliances, advanced building envelope efficiency, and innovative solar technology to make the home extremely efficient and environmentally responsible. In building this particular ZNE home, Habitat for Humanity Mississippi Capital Area and Atmos Energy collaborated with Dickens & Associates (Energy Rater) and Mississippi Solar, LLC.
Central District PSC Commissioner Brent Bailey was also on hand for the dedication this morning.
“The high-efficiency natural gas appliances, sustainable construction techniques and renewable energy technologies utilized throughout the ZNE home guarantees long-term energy costs stability allowing the Brown family to maintain affordable energy bills year around,” Central District Public Service Commissioner Brent Bailey said. “I congratulate Atmos Energy and Habitat for Humanity for their collaborative efforts to create the first accredited ZNE home in Mississippi. This project provides a path for home builders who want to make home energy savings a priority in their community.”
“Affordable housing begins with affordable energy, and this ZNE home showcases our commitment to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities,” said Matt Davidson, Atmos Energy Mississippi division president. “Natural gas is a part of the solution to achieve our low carbon energy future, and we are so proud that Ms. Brown and her lovely daugther will be able to enjoy an energy-efficient, comfortable home that partners natural gas with renewable energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while lowering her utility bills.”
To learn more about Atmos Energy’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity to build zero net energy homes in cities around the country, please visit atmosenergy.com/ZNE.
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