Green Greenfield homes use 0 net energy

GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - High utility bills and energy use is forcing home builders to get creative, and one local village is doing just that by almost powering itself.

The Wisdom Way Solar Village in Greenfield is building houses, that use Zero net energy. They did it all through solar electricity and solar hot water panels on the roof. The homes also have double paned windows, an air circulation system and hard wood floors. The rooms also have thicker than normal walls to retain more heat.

Its all designed to keep the house the right temperature no matter what its like outside.

22News talked with residents and builders who say they hope its the way of the future.

"If we are going to impact climate change we absolutely have to change the way we build and renovate buildings," said Anne Perkins of Rural Development Inc.

"Tell me about your electric bill is it really all solar, how much is it going to be, people are so excited," said Robbins Thorne-Thomsen of Greenfield.

Rural Development Inc. is making the homes for all income levels and are actually holding a lottery to determine who gets to buy one.

You can check out how you can enter, at www.ruraldevelopmentinc.org.