People often associate energy-efficient housing with expensive designs that incorporate high-tech materials and specialized construction techniques. But a new project at the University of Nottingham in the U.K. that debuts this week promotes new, environmentally sustainable housing designs that won’t break the bank.

The first of six properties in the Creative Energy Homes Project on University Park will showcase state-of-the-art energy efficient housing, which means having as near as possible zero carbon emissions. Built by BASF, a construction materials supplier, the house has a compact floor area and relies as much as possible on passive solar design to keep costs down. The British government wants all new homes to be carbon neutral in 10 years, and the BASF house aims for energy-efficiency even above and below the house: a rainwater tank on the roof so bathwater can be reused in the toilet; low-energy appliances and lighting; extra insulation and air heated deep under the basement. The house should cut carbon emissions by a minimum of 60 percent on the typical UK home. Several companies, including Stoneguard, Roger Bullivant Ltd, EON, and BASF are funding the project. 

Here in the U.S., utility companies and state and federal government agencies offer financial incentives to construct low-energy homes, which helps offset the up-front costs of solar panels and the like. When consumers use less energy, utility companies benefit because they don't have to build more power plants and transmission lines.

In 2006, Clarum Homes built four demonstration homes in Borrego Springs, a desert location 85 miles northeast of San Diego. With summertime temperatures that often reach 110 degrees (Fahrenheit), the area is ideal for testing out different cooling systems and construction materials.  The homes feature 3.2-kilowatt solar power systems, instantaneous water heaters, and exterior shade screens, and three of the homes are equipped with under-floor radiant heating.