Building for Zero
Washington Gas’ Net Zero Energy Homes Initiative —Providing Energy Efficiency with Natural Gas
Washington Gas is dedicated to advancing energy efficiency in the housing market by partnering with a builder to develop a Net Zero Energy Home that is stylish, comfortable, and energy efficient. Through smart design, high-performance construction, and energy appliances, Washington Gas demonstrates how natural gas can play a valuable role in affordable and energy-efficient living.
So, what exactly is a Net Zero Energy Home? A Net Zero Energy Home is one that achieves a high standard of energy efficiency, as measured by the HERS® Index, and is designed to produce as much energy as it consumes over the course of a year. By integrating renewable energy sources with advanced building techniques, these homes dramatically lower energy consumption. For this particular home, the energy rater analyzed this home through RESNET.
How Can a Home be Net Zero?
Net Zero doesn't mean sacrificing comfort, style, or performance—in fact, it often means the opposite. These homes are thoughtfully designed to be more comfortable and efficient than traditional homes, thanks to advanced insulation, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and on-site renewable energy like solar panels.
Benefits of Natural Gas in Net Zero Energy Homes
Savings from lower utility bills
Greater efficiency with less energy use
Dependable energy, even during high demand or electric outages
Year-round comfort without the hassle of refueling tanks for heating
Our Partners
Washington Gas appreciates our partners who are also interested in bringing energy solutions to our community.
Path to a Net Zero Energy Home
Every Net Zero Energy Home begins with intentional, energy-smart design—and that starts with understanding your home's energy performance. The HERS® Index1 (Home Energy Rating System) is a nationally recognized standard for measuring a home's energy efficiency. It applies to both new construction and existing homes, providing a clear benchmark for energy use. For homeowners, the HERS® Index1 serves as a valuable tool to evaluate current performance and identify opportunities for improvement, helping guide upgrades that move a home closer to net zero.
A HERS® Index1 Score of 100 reflects a home built to 2006 energy code standards. The lower the score, the greater the efficiency. A score of 0 indicates a net zero energy home—one that generates as much energy as it consumes annually. The Net Zero Energy Home in Alexandria is designed to be able to achieve a HERS®1 score of 0, setting a new standard for energy-efficient living.
By using the HERS® Index1 during the planning and building process, homeowners and builders can identify opportunities to improve efficiency and make informed choices about insulation, HVAC systems, windows, and other smart appliances.
How to Increase Energy Efficiency in Your Own Home
Assess Your Home's Potential:
To understand what energy efficiency changes you should consider in your existing home, you first must understand where energy is being lost. Our Home Energy Assessment helps you pinpoint inefficiencies and uncover opportunities to improve comfort, reduce costs and help save energy.
Explore Energy Efficiency Home Improvements:
Take the next step toward a more energy-efficient home. Consider exploring key features like:
- High-efficiency natural gas heating and hot water systems
- ENERGY STAR-certified appliances and LED lighting
- Superior insulation in walls, attic, and windows
- A smart thermostat for precise energy control
- Renewable energy sources (like solar panels) to help offset energy use
See how natural gas can play a key role in helping to achieve high-performance, energy-efficient homes - go to WHY NATURAL GAS tab.
Enjoy the Benefits:
- Lower Energy Costs: Help save money with high-efficiency natural gas systems and on-site renewable energy.2
- Quality Construction & Comfort: Advanced insulation and high-performance windows help deliver consistent temperatures and reduced drafts.3
- Long-Term Value: The growing demand for energy-efficient homes not only can boost resale value but also offers the potential for tax credits and rebates.4
See Available Rebates and Programs to Help You Save on Energy Efficiency Upgrades:
No Cost Home Energy Conservation Kit
Get up to $900 in rebates when you upgrade to ENERGY STAR® certified boilers and furnaces
Get up to $450 in rebates on select ENERGY STAR® certified water heaters
Receive a $75 rebate when you install a qualifying natural gas fireplace
Receive a $100 rebate when you tune-up your gas furnace or boiler
Income-qualified homeowners, renters, and multifamily properties can access free energy upgrades, audits, and efficiency measures through LIEEP and MEEHA programs to help lower utility costs
Save up to $100 on an ENERGY STAR® certified clothes dryer
No Cost Home Energy Conservation Kit
Save up to $800 on select ENERGY STAR® certified boilers and furnaces
Get up to $400 in rebates on select ENERGY STAR® certified water heaters
Save $100 on an ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat
Save $50 when you complete a Gas Fireplace tune-up
Receive $2.50/sq ft in rebates for Window Attachments Auto Control (Cellular Shades) and $0.75/sq ft for Window Attachments Manual Control (Cellular Shades)
Receive $1.50/sq ft in rebates for high-efficiency windows and $1.00/sq ft for storm windows
1 https://www.hersindex.com/hers-index/what-is-the-hers-index/
2 https://www.aga.org/natural-gas/affordable/
3 https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/guide_to_energy_efficient_windows.pdf
3 https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/guide_to_home_insulation.pdf
4 https://www.energystar.gov/newhomes/features-benefits/better-resale-value
Building Net Zero Energy Homes Together
Washington Gas is actively encouraging and supporting the push to build more Net Zero Energy Homes that incorporate natural gas and renewable energy infrastructure. We’re always on the lookout for partners who are forward-thinking and open to showcasing how natural gas can contribute to delivering certified Net Zero Energy performance homes.
State and federal incentives can provide added value to homebuilders interested in participating in energy-efficient home building.
Check Out Available Benefits for Builders:
EmPOWER Maryland New Homes Program
Home Certification | ||
Home Type | Code Plus Certification | ENERGY STAR Version 3.2 |
Single-Family Detached | $1,250 | $1,950 |
Townhouse or Duplex | $750 | $1,400 |
Two-on-Two Condo | $550 | $675 |
Multi-Family Low Rise | $450 | $600 |
Gas Equipment & Appliances | ||
Eligible Equipment | Efficiency Requirements | Rebate |
Furnace Tier 1 | ENERGY STAR certified and minimum 95.1% AFUE | $450 |
Furnace Tier 2 | ENERGY STAR certified and minimum 97% AFUE | $700 |
Tankless Water Heater | .89%+ UEF | $450 |
Direct Vent Gas Fireplace | Minimum AFUE 70% and Electric Ignition | $75 |
NOTE: Home certification must be achieved to qualify for additive equipment & appliance incentives.
45L New Energy Efficient Home Credit
Gas Equipment & Appliances (Available through June 30, 2026) | ||
Home Type | ENERGY STAR Version 3.2 | |
Single-Family Homes | $2,500 | |
Manufactured Homes | $2,500 | |
Multi-Family Homes | $500 | |
NOTE: Tax credits may be coupled with utility incentives in MD and VA. Homebuilders should consult with a tax professional. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the 45L tax credit is set to expire on June 30, 2026. Please refer to the ENERGY STAR program website for more information on eligibility and program requirements. The information provided here does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance. Individuals or entities looking to claim tax credits should consult with a tax professional to determine whether and how they can claim a particular tax credit and determine whether the credit can be used with other incentives or programs.
Potential 45L Builder Tax Credits – ZERH (Available through June 30, 2026) | ||
Home Type | ZERH | |
Single-Family Detached | $5,000 | |
Manufactured Homes | $5,000 | |
Multi-Family Homes | $1,000 | |
Affordable Housing - ZERH (Available through June 30, 2026) | ||
Agency & Programs | ZERH | |
DHCD- MEEHA | $1,500 / Home | |
US HUD – GRRP (Leading Edge) | $60K / Unit $10M / Property | |
US HUD – GRRP (Elements) | $40K / Unit $750K / Property | |
Financing | ||
Fannie Mae | ZERH | |
Green Rewards | Lower interest rate Free High Performance Building Report Up to 5% more loan proceeds No minimum investment per unit
| |
Green Building Certification | ||
NOTE: Tax credits may be coupled with utility incentives in MD and VA. Homebuilders should consult with a tax professional. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the 45L tax credit is set to expire on June 30, 2026. Please refer to the ZERH program website for more information on eligibility and program requirements. The information provided here does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance. Individuals or entities looking to claim tax credits should consult with a tax professional to determine whether and how they can claim a particular tax credit and determine whether the credit can be used with other incentives or programs.
Washington Gas invites builders and industry partners to join us in advancing the construction of Net Zero Energy Homes that incorporate natural gas and renewable energy infrastructure.
VA CARE New Homes Program
Home Certification | |||
Home Type | Home Type | Code Plus Certification | ENERGY STAR Version 3.2 |
Single-Family Detached | < = 65 HERS and $2/therm saved | $100 | $200 |
Townhouse or Duplex | |||
Two-on-Two Condo | |||
Multi-Family Low Rise | |||
Gas Equipment & Appliances | ||
Eligible Equipment | Efficiency Requirements | Rebate |
Furnace Tier 2 | ENERGY STAR certified and minimum 97% AFUE | $150 |
Tankless Water Heater | 95%+ UEF | $150 |
Smart Thermostat | ENERGY STAR Certified | $50 |
NOTE: Incentives are subject to a maximum limit of $1,500 per home.
45L New Energy Efficient Home Credit
Potential 45L Builder Tax Credits - ENERGY STAR (Available through June 30, 2026) | ||
Home Type | ENERGY STAR Version 3.2 | |
Single-Family Homes | $2,500 | |
Manufactured Homes | $2,500 | |
Multi-Family Homes | $500 | |
NOTE: Tax credits may be coupled with utility incentives in MD and VA. Homebuilders should consult with a tax professional. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the 45L tax credit is set to expire on June 30, 2026. Please refer to the ENERGY STAR program website for more information on eligibility and program requirements. The information provided here does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance. Individuals or entities looking to claim tax credits should consult with a tax professional to determine whether and how they can claim a particular tax credit and determine whether the credit can be used with other incentives or programs.
Potential 45L Builder Tax Credits – ZERH (Available through June 30, 2026) | ||
Home Type | ZERH | |
Single-Family Detached | $5,000 | |
Manufactured Homes | $5,000 | |
Multi-Family Homes | $1,000 | |
Affordable Housing - ZERH (Available through June 30, 2026) | ||
Agency & Programs | ZERH | |
DHCD - HIEE | Up to $2M / Project | |
US HUD – GRRP (Leading Edge) | $60K / Unit $10M / Property | |
US HUD – GRRP (Elements) | $40K / Unit $750K / Property | |
Financing | ||
Fannie Mae | ZERH | |
Green Rewards | Lower interest rate Free High Performance Building Report Up to 5% more loan proceeds No minimum investment per unit
| |
Green Building Certification | ||
NOTE: Tax credits may be coupled with utility incentives in MD and VA. Homebuilders should consult with a tax professional. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the 45L tax credit is set to expire on June 30, 2026. Please refer to the ZERH program website for more information on eligibility and program requirements. The information provided here does not constitute professional tax advice or other professional financial guidance. Individuals or entities looking to claim tax credits should consult with a tax professional to determine whether and how they can claim a particular tax credit and determine whether the credit can be used with other incentives or programs.
Washington Gas invites builders and industry partners to join us in advancing the construction of Net Zero Energy Homes that incorporate natural gas and renewable energy infrastructure.
Washington Gas invites builders and industry partners to join us in advancing the construction of Net Zero Energy Homes that incorporate natural gas and renewable energy infrastructure.
Ready to Build Net Zero Energy Homes Together?
How Natural Gas Fits into a Net Zero Energy Home
Whether you’re a homeowner, homebuyer, or builder, finding energy solutions that balance performance, cost, and energy efficiency is essential. Natural gas is a reliable choice that helps keep everyday living efficient and affordable.
By integrating natural gas with renewable energy technologies like solar, you can help lower energy costs and create an efficient home that’s both comfortable and resilient.
Why Natural Gas is the Smart Choice for Energy-Efficient Homes:
- Affordable Heating
With as much as half of the energy used in your home going to heating and cooling, choosing ENERGY STAR certified heating equipment can have a big impact on your comfort, while helping you save money.1
Efficient Hot Water
Water heaters are the second highest energy user in the home. Set yourself up for long-term savings and choose an ENERGY STAR certified natural gas water heater that provides all the hot water you need, while also saving you energy and money.1
- Enhanced Performance
Gas ranges provide precise, even heat for cooking and feature easy-to-clean designs for added convenience.2
- Added Comfort & Style
Enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a natural gas fireplace in your home! Direct-vent gas fireplaces are safe and easy to operate, providing energy-efficient heat at the flip of a switch.3