On June 03, 2016, NESEA held our first-ever Pro Tour in Connecticut. Attendees took a mid-construction tour of Waystone Farm on an 8-acre parcel in North Guilford,  Ct; a project inspired by a Connecticut couple’s lifelong dream to leave as small a footprint as possible while also being as self-sustaining as they can; from an energy standpoint but also in terms of living off their land. Based on the homeowners’ intention to eventually live off the grid, this new home is being built as Zero Net Energy, utilizing renewables such as photovoltaics and geothermal to support energy goals while also incorporating Passive House methods to reduce the energy demand and promote resiliency to shelter in place in the event of an extended power outage.  NESEA members Bill Freeman and Alicia Dolce of Celebration Green Design & Build were onsite to provide an overview of the project and give a presentation following the reception on the current status of Zero Net Energy building.

Property Features

• New construction, 3400 sq. ft. Barn-inspired Design
• Built to Zero Net Energy standards - click here to view load calculations
• 100% offset energy through 12.6 PV array & geothermal
• Traditional stick framed structure with double 2 x 4 walls
• Super insulated and airtight:  Preliminary blower test at 0.5 ACH50
• Mechanicals:  Geothermal water furnace, SteibelEltron DHW heat pump, Zenhder ERV
• HERS projected rating of -7
• 8 acres of self-sufficient land use/future inhabitants to include: Nigerian Dwarf goats &chickens (honeybees already in residence!)