Through a combination of high performance products (such as insulation, windows, appliances, and lighting), advanced construction techniques, and solar power, the VISION House is net zero energy, meaning that it produces as much energy as it uses.  We measured the home’s energy performance with the HERS Index Score issued by RESNET.  It’s a tool similar to a miles-per-gallon sticker for cars. With a HERS rating, a low score shows higher energy efficiency and performance.  According to RESNET, a typical American new home that is built to code is rated at 100 on the HERS index, and a typical existing home is rated at 130 (so, existing homes are generally 30% less efficient than today’s new homes). That means that this home is 100% more energy efficient than a typical new home!  Think of all of the energy—and money—that the Monteverdes are saving!