So. Cal. Edison to build a Showcase Zero Net Energy home at the Great Park

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 20, 2011

CONTACT: JENN STARNES, 949-724-6574

Southern California Edison Selects Great ParkTo Showcase Zero Net Energy Home

Building will demonstrate the latest in energy-efficiency

IRVINE – The Orange County Great Park Board today authorized Chief Executive Officer Mike Ellzey to negotiate a lease with Southern California Edison for the construction of a Zero Net Energy Home.

Southern California Edison proposed the Zero Net Energy Home, named the ABC Green Home, be built at the Great Park using renewable energy and energy efficiency features that would allow a family of four to live with zero net energy from the electricity grid.

The proposed home would be on display for public education, teaching the use of renewable energy and energy conservation in home building, retrofitting and design. The home would be fitted so that visitors can peek into the walls for a closer look at energy-efficient construction. After an approximate 18-month display, the home will then be donated to a local charitable organization.

“Given the importance of creating sustainable communities, we are excited to work with Southern California Edison to showcase the ABC Green Home for home buyers, builders and the general public to learn about the latest advances in green building,” said Beth Krom, Chair of the Orange County Great Park Corporation.   “The project will also serve as a training ground to teach students about the latest green building products, architecture and design in the homebuilding and remodeling industries.”

The 1,695-square foot, three bedroom, two bath, single story craftsman style home is designed by respected architecture firm KTGY in cooperation with Green Homebuilder Magazine.

Upon successful negotiation of the lease agreement, construction is scheduled to begin before the end of the year and be completed by early 2012.

“Sustainability and education are two important guiding principals in the development and programming of the Great Park’” said Mike Ellzey, CEO of the Orange County Great Park Corporation. “This collaboration with Southern California Edison advances both of those important objectives for the benefit of the public.”

About the Great Park

The Orange County Great Park, with its 1,347-acre master plan, is the focal point of the redevelopment of the publicly-owned portion of the 4,700-acre former Marine Corps Air Station, El Toro. The Great Park features an iconic tethered helium balloon that rises 400 feet in the air, providing an aerial view of Park development. Other features include the Carousel, Farm + Food Lab, Kids Rock Playground, Walkable Timeline, Palm Court Arts Complex, North Lawn recreation area and historic Hangar 244. The South Lawn lighted soccer fields and Community Garden will be added in 2012. For more information, please go to www.ocgp.org.

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