The Flex House’s net-zero-energy readiness includes an efficient and airtight envelope, lowered demand and a responsive renewable power system.

With its tough building standards, California is a good incubator for The Flex House, which will be built in a local factory, then transported to sites within and outside the state. The Flex House is designed to function as a net-zero-energy (NZE) home, says Jeff Cretcher, who recently joined Shelter Dynamics as the company’s new CEO. There are a number of efforts underway to help the structure reach that status, starting with the home’s thermal envelope.