Consumers say they'll pay more for net-zero energy homes

A growing number of consumers indicate they’d be willing to spend more to buy a ‘net-zero energy home’, or one that generates as much energy as it uses.

A recent survey by the Propane Education & Research Council of 2,200 U.S. adults who’re planning to buy, remodel or build a home, reveals that the vast majority have a favorable opinion of NZE homes. Some 83% of buyers said they’d consider such a home for their next purchase, even if it meant paying more.

The survey respondents cited the cost savings and environmental benefits of NZE homes as the main reasons they’d consider one.

In the case of those respondents who said they’re planning to remodel their existing homes, 81% said they’d pay more to make their property an NZE home. They’d be willing to pay 20% to 30% more on the cost of their projects to achieve this. However, they may not be aware that it generally costs 36% more to ensure a home meets NZE standards.

“The study revealed some really interesting data, and we were excited to see a majority of respondents expressed an interest in energy efficient and NZE home projects,” said Bryan Cordill, director of residential and commercial business development at PERC. “These insights can help guide construction professionals looking to grow their customer base in this emerging home-building approach.”

Cordill added that construction professionals should take the responsibility to educate consumers on how energy systems and appliances can impact the overall efficiency of a home.