PERC Resources Explore Propane’s Role in Net-Zero Homes

WASHINGTON, DC – The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) created a webpage dedicated to showcasing propane’s capabilities for net zero energy projects — a rapidly growing trend in the construction industry.

A survey performed by Harris Insights & Analytics for PERC found that 83 percent of respondents buying a home and 89 percent of respondents building a home are likely to consider a net zero energy home for their next purchase or build. And about the same number — 81 percent of respondents buying a home and 84 percent of respondents building a home — are very or somewhat willing to pay more for a net zero energy home. The top reasons for considering a net zero energy home included cost savings and environmental benefits.

The webpage, located on Propane.com, hosts a variety of educational resources for residential builders, remodelers, and construction professionals. Resources include testimonials, infographics, and charts that analyze site-to-source energy comparisons of electricity and propane, discuss the Home Energy Rating System (HERS), and compare annual energy costs. Additionally, visitors can watch video interviews with an architect and engineering consultant who focus on sustainable construction — and who are achieving net zero energy performance with propane.

“Many construction professionals are under the misconception that net zero energy has to mean all-electric and we hope the resources on this webpage will help shake the skepticism that propane, along with other renewable energy sources, can be used to meet net zero energy standards,” said Bryan Cordill, director of residential and commercial business development at PERC. “Propane can provide a clean, efficient, and cost-effective energy solution for builders and their customers.”

Propane-powered appliances can significantly lower a home’s energy consumption, making it easier to achieve net zero energy goals and deliver premium performance to customers. These systems also lower first costs, annual energy costs, and emissions. Propane can even work hand-in-hand with renewable energy sources like wind and solar. In fact, mixed-fuel solutions are popular in net zero energy projects because homeowners can lower their monthly utility bills while still reaping the benefits of gas appliances.

“Net zero energy projects will continue to increase in popularity,” Cordill said. “This trend presents a unique business opportunity for construction professionals who are well-versed in how different energy sources can impact a home’s performance. I encourage you to explore the resources we have available, so you’re ready to best serve these customers when they come calling.”

Visit here to explore PERC’s ZNE resources. To learn more about the benefits of propane for residential construction, visit Propane.com/Residential-Construction.