July 21st, 2008

By Tom Kessler

Colorado developers have announced what they say is the country’s largest net-zero energy, master-planned community in Arvada, Colo., a suburb of Denver. Geos Neighborhood, which will begin infrastructure construction this fall, will feature 250 residences and can generate enough renewable energy to supply 100 percent of the annual energy needs of the entire community, the developers say.

The community will rely mainly on on-site solar and geothermal systems designed to supply its energy needs. Geos also will employ a “groundbreaking checkerboard placement pattern” of the homes that maximizes solar efficiency, as well as advanced storm water recycling, rain permeable surfaces to mitigate run off and heat recovery ventilators.

Geos Neighborhood ’s developers say they expect to offer sustainable living at accessible price points — homes will begin in the $200,000s, ranging up to around $500,000 for the biggest models replete with options. The homes will range from 860 square feet to 3,683 square feet and include single-family homes, townhomes, paired homes, row homes, multi-level condos and co-housing.

“It’s great that there are multimillion dollar homes out there with every eco bell and whistle imaginable,” said project developer Norbert Klebl in a news release. “Our goal with the Geos Neighborhood is to deliver these same opportunities to more than just the select few by designing a lifestyle community that is financially accessible to many more people.”

Groundbreaking is slated for this fall. More information about Geos Neighborhood and its features are available online.