Calgary’s First – Net Zero and Net Zero Ready Townhomes
In Partnership with The Canadian Home Builders’ Association and Natural Resources Canada, we built one of the first Multi‐Unit Residential Buildings (MURBs) qualified under the CHBA Net Zero Home Labelling Program at ZEN Sequel in Seton!
ZEN Sequel, in Seton, offered 8 Net Zero Townhomes and 8 Net Zero-Ready Townhomes.
What is a Net Zero Home?
A Net Zero Home is designed, modelled and built to produce as much energy as it consumes annually and is up to 80% more efficient than a typical new home.
A Net Zero Ready Home has all the features of a Net Zero Home without solar panels. A Net Zero Ready Home uses up to 80% less energy than a home built to traditional standards.
Net Zero Energy Features
A Home Comfort System
A heating and cooling system that uses an Air-Source Heat Pump and Heat Pump Water Heater to pull heat to and from your home saves between 20 and 40% of the heating cost. In warmer months, the heat pump pulls heat from inside your home and moves it outside, cooling your home. In cooler months, it reverses the process and extracts heat from outside air and moves it into your home. The Heat Pump Water Heater takes heat from the surrounding air and moves it into the tank, making it 2 to 3 times more efficient than a standard water heater.
Fresh Air System (HRV)
Pets, household cleaners and personal care products all impact indoor air quality. You can think of this system as the lungs of the home, and its job is to continuously remove stale, humid air and replace it with fresh, filtered air from outside. As a result of the improved air quality throughout your home, allergies and breathing conditions, like asthma, will improve.
Double-Coated Triple-Pane Windows
Windows that have double the insulation value of typical brand-new windows. Compared to double-pane units, triple-pane windows allow less heat to escape, have less condensation, and are more soundproof.
Solar Panels
Harness the Sun. With little to no maintenance, solar panels help increase your home’s value while lowering energy bills.
*Not applicable for Net Zero Ready Homes.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Refrigerator, dishwasher and laundry are ENERGY STAR® rated, saving money using less electricity.
Superior Heating & Cooling
Superior heating, cooling and ventilation systems mean more even and consistent temperatures throughout the house all year round.
Super Insulated & Airtight Envelope
Insulation levels are 50 to 60% higher than in traditionally built homes, and an airtight building envelope (walls, windows, etc.) doesn’t allow the home’s heated (or cooled) air to leak out. This also means that moisture can’t get into the walls, ensuring the walls stay in great shape as the years go by. For the same reasons that air and moisture can’t get in or out, noise can’t, making for a quieter home.
LED Lighting
We install lighting fixtures that meet ENERGY STAR® standards and have energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce energy usage.
Third-Party Verified
ZEN Net Zero townhomes are third-party EnerGuide™ rated for tighter, draft-free living, better interior air quality and substantial cost reductions.
The result is an energy-efficient, airtight home and exceptional living experience. ZEN Net Zero homeowners will save on utility bills, be protected from energy price increases, and live in a healthier, more durable and more comfortable home.
Quiet and Comfortable
- Our Double-Coated Triple-Pane windows allow less heat to escape with double the insulation value of typical new windows, making your home more sound-proof.
- Our air-tight walls eliminate drafts, reduce energy consumption and lower exterior noise levels.
- Like a cozy warm blanket, our attic insulation has a value of R-60 for maximum comfort and savings.
Breathe Easy
For continuous clean, healthy, fresh air, our Fresh Air System exchanges stale air for fresh, filtered air. This is especially beneficial for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, allowing everyone to breathe a little easier.
Save Money
- Net Zero For Zero Dollars
We’re making Net Zero Homes affordable and easy to own! When you add up the cost of the mortgage payment and the utility savings, you get an exceptional living experience for no extra cost per month over a standard townhome. - CMHC Green Home Rebate
You can save even more with CMHC’s premium refund, up to 25% off their mortgage loan insurance premium, when you buy a ZEN Net Zero home! Learn more. - And so much more!
ZEN Net Zero in the News
Calgary Herald, December 8, 2023
Avalon building on net zero momentum
Calgary Herald, September 23, 2023
Homebuyers enjoy energy savings and greater comfort in net-zero townhomes
Calgary Herald, June 30, 2022
Avalon brings net zero multi-family rentals to Calgary’s northwest
Calgary Herald, March 4, 2022
Zen Sequel: ‘Net zero for zero dollars’ in new certified townhomes
Calgary SUN, January 17, 2022
Habitat for Humanity, Avalon Master Builder partner on 24-unit Livingston project
Calgary Herald, September 11, 2020
See how net zero meets townhomes in Zen Sequel show suites
Calgary Herald, July 4, 2020
Zen net zero in Seton
https://calgaryherald.com/life/homes/condos/zen-net-zero-in-seton
NextHome, June 24, 2020
Affordable, Net Zero living at ZEN Sequel
https://nexthome.ca/news/affordable-net-zero-living-at-zen-sequel/1275039/