My home was originally built in 1972. I bought it in 2015 with a clear intention – to make it a net-zero energy home. Immediately upon closing, I embarked on retrofitting work to achieve that goal.

My drive for this project traces back to my early years. When I was 12, I developed a deep interest in environmental issues like acid rain, landfills, and deforestation. These topics became my passions, and I made it my life purpose to reduce harm to the environment. Despite the challenges posed by our profit-driven society, I stayed committed. Using my career in healthcare to finance my purpose, I searched for ways to make a tangible impact. Although I initially wanted to create eco-friendly housing on a piece of land, reality led me to buy a home, which became the canvas for my net-zero journey.

Of course, doubts and hesitations crept in. The worries about mortgages and costs were real, but my determination outweighed those concerns. People around me questioned the expenses and the feasibility in our neighborhood, but my dedication to environmental care remained firm. In my quest for advice, I sought out bids for solar panels, and through the process I was able to gain valuable insights. An experienced solar enthusiast shared advice that formed the blueprint for my net-zero plan. The recommendations included energy retrofitting, a new roof, and exploring geothermal heating options.

Challenges didn't disappear, though. I worked extra hours and rented out rooms to fund the renovations and mortgage, showing just how determined I was. Finding reliable workers proved to be a challenge in itself, as achieving the desired results hinged on trust and clear communication.

Finally completing the project brought a mix of satisfaction and mild disappointment. While my energy costs dropped significantly, they didn't quite reach zero. The hope of generating extra energy for profit didn't entirely materialize due to trade-offs with energy rebates. Nonetheless, I felt accomplished, living with a reduced sense of guilt over my energy use.

Transitioning to a "zero" lifestyle brought significant changes – a lighter environmental impact and a less stressful life. Now, I aim to move beyond zero and become a net-positive contributor to the environment.

When asked whether I'd recommend this path to others, the answer is a resounding yes. I encourage friends and neighbors to embark on their own journeys toward net-zero living, based on their means. Whether making small changes or diving into larger projects, the call is to embrace a life that values sustainability, benefiting not only ourselves but also our community and the planet.