Skip to content

Resource Library

RESTalk: Santa Fe’s Habitat for Humanity Homes achieve HERS-ZERO scores with Rob Lochner and David Best

Podcast

Overview

A fascinating story of how 15 NetZero / HERS-ZERO homes have been built in the Habitat for Humanity program in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

“Example is not the main thing in influencing others.

It is the only thing.”

-Albert Schweitzer

Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to help families build and improve places to call home. In the process developing strong and stable communities with affordable housing.

Often household utility costs make affordability a challenge.

What factors need to fall into place to address this challenge of affordability?

How are cozy, comfortable, attractive homes that use no net energy being built in the Habit for Humanity model?

Join RESTalk as Rob Lochner, Construction Director at Habit for Humanity, Santa Fe and David Best, HERS Rater with Evergreen Building Solutions (www.evergreenbuildingsolutions.com/) share the fascinating story of how 15 NetZero / HERS-ZERO homes have been built in the Habitat for Humanity program in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

David describes some of the straightforward technical practices and measures that have been used as the program has evolved since 2020.

While these homes are attracting interest and providing influence, Rob shares insights into what seems to be preventing more widespread adoption of these practices in more projects.

Related Resources

Hyperlink icon to reveal a BPA Resource Video

A Cup of Joe: Second Law of Thermodynamics 

Watch as Joe Lstiburek discusses the Second Law of Thermodynamics.

Download this BPA resource

Ducted Range Hoods Recommendations for New and Existing Homes 

Read the issue brief for information on the many benefits to adding a range hood to your kitchen, and how it can reduce the pollutant exposures and negative health impacts in your home.

Hyperlink icon to reveal a BPA Resource Video

Using the Right Materials with Joe Lstiburek 

Watch as Dr. Joe Lstiburek discusses the challenges of open-joint cladding and best practices.