net-zero

adjective

net-ze·ro | \ ˈnet-ˈzē-(ˌ)rō ,

-ˈzir-(ˌ)ō \

Definition of net-zero

: resulting in neither a surplus nor a deficit of something specified when gains and losses are added together net-zero carbon emissions The General Services Administration has sealed an unusual deal to guarantee achievement of net-zero energy consumption in a federal facility … —Charles S. Clark especially, of buildings : producing enough energy (as through solar panels or passive heating) to offset any energy consumed By 2020 all new homes built in California will have to be net-zero buildings that produce enough power to offset all their energy needs … —K. Kaufmann Another affordable, net-zero house is under construction in North Minneapolis, and a third is in development at the school. —John Cary