Toward a Zero Energy Home: A Complete Guide to Energy Self-Sufficiency at Home    by David Johnston & Scott Gibson Order:  USA  Can Taunton Press, 2010 (2010) Softcover Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Bob Walch The goal for many people is to live in a zero energy home, which means the dwelling produces as much energy as it consumes. You may think this is a dream that is still decades away but this book dispels that myth. This guide to energy self-sufficiency at home shows that the future has indeed arrived. The authors of Green from the Ground Up explore not only how to construct an energy efficient envelope with smart insulation, roofing, and framing choices, but they also discuss passive solar design and renewable energy. Since heating, cooling and ventilation are key elements in controlling energy use and creating a zero energy home, a separate chapter is devoted to this important area. Finally, living a zero energy lifestyle is investigated in the book's closing section. The cost of creating a self-sufficient home is addressed as well as the perception that the systems to enable a homeowner to enjoy a zero energy environment might be too complicated. Throughout the guide, twelve houses that were built for zero energy are showcased. These dwellings illustrate what is currently possible and underscore that an zero energy home is also a attractive, functional and comfortable domicile. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews