Weber state's sustainable home becomes model for energy-efficient living

Weber State University has repurposed its energy-efficient home, built in 2020, as a model demonstration house and headquarters for a new initiative to encourage homeowners across Utah to implement their own eco-friendly upgrades.

Home's unique features aim to showcase practical sustainability

The 2,500-square-foot property at 2807 Quincy Ave. in Ogden was initially designed and constructed by WSU students and faculty to compete in the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Decathlon competition. Now, it will serve as a living example of how everyday energy-efficient choices can benefit both the environment and homeowners' wallets.

Equipped with 39 rooftop solar panels, a heat pump for heating and cooling, and an air-tight construction, the home was estimated to cost just $100 annually to power when first completed. Its sustainable features will now be showcased through public workshops, one-on-one guidance, and community outreach efforts led by WSU's Sustainability Practices and Research Center.

University officials hope the initiative will not only inspire homeowners to make simple upgrades like installing energy-efficient light bulbs or weatherstripping but also to consider more substantial measures like solar panels. A $2.49 million grant from the Utah Department of Environmental Quality will support staffing and