Report: Solar Energy Systems in New Homes Can Cut Utility Bills

The combination of solar energy systems and energy-efficient technologies built into new homes can significantly cut homeowner utility bills, cut pollution and save water, according to a recent report from the Environment Texas Research and Policy Center.

The report, based on an Environment Texas study, indicates that constructing net-zero homes — which use the same amount of power they generate — would provide the savings. The environmental group says roughly 2.2 million new homes will be built in Texas over the next 20 years and that energy efficiencies and solar systems in those homes could cut customer utility bills by about $5.4 billion, or almost $500 per household every year.

The group also said the reduction of emissions in Texas, the country's top greenhouse gas-producing state, would be equal to eliminating the pollution of over three million cars by 2030.

Environment Texas Director Luke Metzger said, "Everyone knows solar panels and energy-saving measures in the home are good for the environment. Our report shows that they are also good for the pocketbook. And net-zero energy homes, which combine energy efficiency, clean energy like solar panels, and common sense design aren't something out of the Jetsons, they're already available right here in Texas."

The study determined that significant savings are possible if 10% more net-zero homes are built every year for the next 10 years, and all new homes built by 2020 incorporate the net-zero features.

That construction timeline also could save more than 25 billion kilowatt hours per year, which would eliminate the need to build seven new coal-fired power generating plants. The report indicated that the Austin metro area alone would cut energy consumption by 2.38 billion kilowatt hours in 2030.

And while Texas may not seem the likeliest state in the union to embrace these innovative Smart Grid technologies, it has. There are already many net-zero homes in Texas and more are on the way. Austin architectural firm KRDB is now building the first neighborhood in Texas that will feature nothing but net-zero homes.

KRDB said energy use in the net-zero homes will be 45% of the consumption of a traditional home. That coupled with Austin Energy's strong rebate program means the net-zero homes make good financial sense, according to KRDB. The savings in water would be achieved with low-impact landscaping and efficient fixtures.