Yackelyn Torres lives in a K-State-designed Net Positive Studio home in Ogden, Kansas, with her three children and the family dog. Here’s a snapshot of her life as a net-positive homeowner — and confirmation that these expertly designed houses achieve what they set out to do.
What’s it like to own a net-zero home with solar panels?
It’s the same as a traditional house, but I have two electrical meters and my bills are broken down into energy usage versus energy generation. I can get detailed data from the solar panels through an app on my phone. It shows me the panels are working and logs the amount of energy they produce daily, weekly and monthly.
The house is also less vulnerable to large temperature fluctuations. It stays warmer in cool weather and cooler when it’s hot with less help from the utility systems.
What features do you like best about your home?
It’s a beautiful, modern home. I love the high ceilings throughout the house and the functionality of the kitchen, but for the most part I appreciate the size of the home — it’s just right for me and my children. I’m hoping to live here until they’ve all graduated from high school.
Does your home’s design encourage you to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with neighbors?
Yes! We have a basketball hoop and plenty of yard space to enjoy along with our dog, and it’s perfect for barbecues.
What does net-positive homeownership mean to you?
I never dreamed of owning a house at the age of 34. It feels really good to know my children have a place to call home, and I work only seven minutes away.
Life has been pretty hectic and my journey has been full of ups and downs, but this experience has reminded me why it’s important to never give up. Hard work really does pay off!
