Beyond the Valley Blog
Stories • Updates • Events • Reflections
net zero
Alumni Impact: Brian Cali's Green Dream
Brian Cali, a Certificate in Building Science and Net-Zero Design alum, is undertaking a deep energy retrofit of a 1782 farmhouse in Reading, VT, including a panelized addition. Our current cohort of building science students took a trip to Brian's home to see the project in action and inspire their own net-zero designs. Brian has detailed his building process in his blog, Green Dream Stories, and sat down with us for an interview on the power of storytelling, community, and sustainability.
Passive House News Round-Up
Passive house principles, hailing originally from the German passivhaus movement, are gaining popularity in the net zero design industry for their simple efficiency. Passive houses harness the energy from the sun using intentional design based on the seasons and path of light. Large windows are used to heat the space using low winter sun, and overhangs to provide shade and cooling. As passive houses gain traction in the US as a viable and versatile option, more and more cities and organizations are incorporating these principles to create affordable, green public and private housing. We've done the research for you - here's the latest from the world of passive house building: affordable senior living in Boston, housing for victims of wildfires in Colorado, and new standards being set in Scotland.
Net Zero Training Series with Burlington Electric Department!
Burlington Electric Department (BED), Better Bee, and Yestermorrow Design/Build School are launching a series of courses designed to advance and accelerate passive house and net zero design!