Integrating net-zero energy and high-performance green building technologies into contemporary housing in a cold climate

The objectives of this research project are (1) to show how the sustainable resources of forest biomass, solar energy, harvested rainwater, and small-diameter logs can be integrated to a system that provides most or all of the energy and water needs of a typical cold climate residential household, and (2) to effectively interpret the results and convey the sustainable potential to the public. This project validates that (1) the combination of the BioMax® wood-pellet energy system (5 kW peak) with grid interconnected solar energy via photovoltaics (4 kW) can provide the majority of the power needs for a residential unit in a cold climate; (2) rainwater can be stored in a 2,500-gallon cistern and reliably filtered and disinfected for potable use; (3) systems to product and save energy and water are safe and reliable; and (4) these technologies are available and work well in cold climates similar to the project's location in Madison, Wisconsin, USA.