Net Zero Energy Residential Test Facility

Project Information

The Net Zero Energy Residential Test Facility (NZERTF) was designed to demonstrate the viability of the Net Zero Energy concept for a residential structure that is similar in size and aesthetics to the surrounding homes in the Gaithersburg, MD area.

As the engineer on record for this project, EBL provided design, construction drawings, and specifications for HVAC (conventional and geothermal), Electrical, Photovoltaic Generation, Plumbing, Solar Thermal Domestic Water Heating and Fire Sprinkler Systems suitable for a public bid process.

The NZERTF generates as much energy on an annual basis as it consumes when operated in a manner that mimics a residence occupied by a family of four. It is used as a lab for testing various building energy technologies by the Building Fire and Research Laboratory (BFRL) of NIST. The HVAC and electrical designs incorporate the initial requirements as well as the future requirements for the energy technologies testing laboratory. Additional requirements for air-tightness, indoor air quality and LEED for Homes were met.

This project was certified LEED Platinum. This project received the ACEC National Recognition Award, ACEC/Metropolitan Washington Engineering Excellence Honor Award in Design and ACEC/MD Outstanding Project Award.