are the most common residential renewable energy installation, though a small wind energy system could be a good choice if your home is on one of the rare sites that is windy enough. There are also other ways to harness the power of the sun. For example, solar water heaters can be cost-effective. Or you can use passive solar techniques, like strategic window placement, landscaping and shading, and specific building materials to heat certain areas of your home in the winter or reduce sun and heat exposure in the summer. You may be able to reduce your energy impact without purchasing Other than solar panels, a Zero Net Energy Home may not look different from other homes. your own rooftop solar panels. Many PHOTO COURTESY NIST electric co-ops are beginning to offer community solar programs, or “solar gardens,” where co-op members invest makes up half of the average home’s energy use, the upgrade will in part of a larger solar installation that supplies the co-op’s elechave a substantial impact on your home, especially when comtric grid. Participating in a community solar program gives you bined with insulation improvements. Sealing up air leaks and rethe benefit of solar power without needing to install and maintain placing lightbulbs with LEDs are smaller investments but can also your own solar panels. help you reach ZNE. Behavioral changes, such as turning down the Remember to talk with your electric co-ops’ energy experts beheat when you leave for the day, using your solar clothes dryer (a fore making any major upgrades, like rooftop solar, to your home. clothes line!) and turning off electronics and lights when you leave For more information visit www.collaborativeefficiency.com/ a room are also small and easy ways to reduce your energy use. energytips or email Pat Keegan at energytips@collaborativeeffiOnce you have reduced your energy use as much as you can, ciency.com.¢ you can now think about producing. Solar photovoltaic panels
nsulation • 6” Gutters • 9’ Ceilings • Delta Fixtures • Custom Cabinets • Crawl or Slab
Lake Blue Ridge
Dahlonega
2,015 sq. ft. under roof $139,800
2,288 sq. ft. under roof $146,000
Ellijay
Oakridge
2,548 sq. ft. under roof $187,800
1,542 sq. ft. under roof $133,600
Dawson Creek
Ocoee C
2,758 sq. ft. under roof $192,700
1,408 sq. ft. under roof $131,700
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ZIP System ZIP System® sheathing and tape is an innovative structural roof and wall system with an integrated water resistant and air barrier that streamlines the weatherization process and transforms it with a simple two-step installation.
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri • 9am - 6pm Saturday • 10am - 4pm Price does not include land improvements. Prices subject to change. Some of the homes shown have options not in the base price.
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