The US Department of Energy’s Building America residentialsystems research project uses an analysis-basedsystems research approach to identify research priorities,identify technology gaps and opportunities, establish a consistentbasis to track research progress, and identify system solutionsthat are most likely to succeed as the initial targets forresidential system research projects.

This report describes the analytical approach used by theprogram to determine the most cost-effective pathways toachieve whole-house energy-saving goals. This report alsoprovides an overview of design/technology strategies leadingto net zero energy buildings as the basis for analysis of futureresidential system performance.