Alstonvale Net Zero House

The goal of the Montréal ZERO team is nothing less than changing the way builders and developers approach the design, construction and marketing of residential housing in Quebec.

Rather than simply adding energy-efficient features to a conventional design, the Alstonvale Net Zero House incorporates considerations for the environment, the building site and the efficient use of resources by the occupants into every stage of the design and construction process.

To minimize energy loss and consumption, the home relies on an airtight and well-insulated building envelope combined with extensive passive heating and cooling techniques, such as large south-facing windows, sunscreens and natural sources of shade.

During the winter, heat will be supplied through an air-to-water heat pump, which extracts heat from behind an array of photovoltaic panels and stores it in a water reservoir. The heated water can then be distributed throughout the house with an in-floor radiant system to provide space heating. The air to water heat pump can also be used to heat the home’s hot water whenever required.

A large portion of the site will be left undisturbed, to act as a natural habitat for local wildlife.

Environmentally friendly, affordable and energy-efficient, the Alstonvale Net Zero House is a true milestone in the Canadian home building landscape.

Key Design Features:

• Air-tight and well-insulated building envelope
• Extensive passive heating and cooling techniques
• Air-to-water heat pump heating system
• Solar thermal panels and photovoltaic array
• Inclusion of natural habitat areas for wildlife

Project Website