By Candace Rotolo
Homebuyers who want to reduce their dependence on traditional energy sources will have a new and unique option to choose from at Waterset. Homebuilder, Greenergy, broke ground recently on its first net zero energy model home in the master-planned community, scheduled to open before the year end.
Greenergy will offer 77 high performing net zero electric homes in Waterset that will be entirely powered by solar energy. The homes will feature designs and high performance elements not commonly found in homes throughout Florida. During construction, many eco-friendly materials will be utilized to ensure a truly eco-healthy home. Rooftop solar panels will produce the power that is used throughout the home to run all aspects of the home. Other features will include air ducts located below the attic to improve airflow and reduce costs, and smart home automation to turn off lights, pull down window shades and regulate climate when the homeowners are away. Natural gas will be used for cooking and other needs. Since the homes are expected to produce as much energy as is spent with average use, homeowners should not have an electric bill.
Greenergy will offer both single story and two-story homes. The four open floor plans will feature three to four bedrooms with dens, two car garages and range from 2,300 sq. ft. to 3,000-sq. ft. Home prices are expected to start in the $290,000s.
“Energy efficiency is becoming an important consideration for more and more homebuyers,” said Pam Parisi, vice president of marketing for Newland Communities. “We believe the option of net zero electric homes will not only be unique in the Tampa Bay marketplace, but also appealing to many prospective buyers. We are very happy to welcome Greenergy as a new builder in Waterset.”
Greenergy has also launched other Net Zero Energy neighborhoods in Port St. Lucie, Kissimmee and Bakersfield, California.
Newland Communities is the master developer of the community. Waterset is one of more than 30 communities that the NORTH AMERICA SEKISUI HOUSE, LLC-Newland partnership owns together in 11 states across the United States.
