A team of Canadian engineers has built a groundbreaking “electrified” house that could change how we power and heat our homes.
The prototype combines solar panels, a heat pump, and a thermal battery into one smart, fully electric system that dramatically reduces both energy costs and carbon emissions—without relying on fossil fuels.
Developed by researchers from Western University’s Faculty of Engineering and Ivey Business School, in partnership with homebuilder Magnus Homes, the project shows that net-zero living is not just possible—it’s practical.
The house, located in Komoka, Ontario, serves as a real-world laboratory to test and refine the technology.
Early results are impressive: the system has cut electricity bills by 45% and reduced carbon emissions by 55%.
The thermal battery, which stores heat energy in a phase-change material such as salt or wax, boosts efficiency by allowing homeowners to use solar energy even when the sun isn’t shining.
This approach increases solar power use within the home by 60%, rather than sending excess energy back to the grid.
“Solar costs have dropped so much that it’s now cheaper than electricity from the grid for most Canadians,” said Professor Joshua Pearce, who leads the project.
“By integrating solar panels, a heat pump, and a thermal battery, we’re able to supply all the heating and hot water a home needs without burning any fossil fuels.”
The design makes the house four times more energy efficient than standard homes. The heat pump converts electricity from rooftop solar panels into heat, which is then stored in the thermal battery for later use—like an energy-saving thermal “bank account.”
The system can also be retrofitted into existing houses, making it a realistic solution for homeowners everywhere.
Ph.D. student and project co-leader Shafquat Rana wired the home with sensors and data-tracking technology to measure energy usage and cost savings. The home’s owner, Magnus Homes president Jaime Crncich, can monitor energy production and consumption in real time through a smartphone app.
“We have a unique opportunity to both create and consume our own energy,” said Crncich. “It’s eye-opening to see how energy use and production balance out. Many homeowners don’t realize how much they could save by being more aware of their energy habits.”
To ensure accurate comparisons, the research team is also monitoring a nearby, traditionally built home that uses grid electricity and natural gas. This allows them to track differences in performance, cost, and emissions side by side.
Although similar systems are more common in the United States, they are only beginning to receive regulatory approval in Canada. Pearce says that’s a missed opportunity. “Most Canadian homes still rely on natural gas or inefficient electric heating,” he said. “But with solar energy, homeowners can shield themselves from rising energy prices while helping the planet.”
Rana adds that electrifying homes is an important step toward fighting climate change. “Decarbonizing the residential sector is one of the easiest and most visible ways to reduce emissions,” she said. “If we integrate this system into new homes across Canada, we can make a big difference.”
For now, the Komoka home stands as a shining example of what’s possible when clean energy meets smart design—a house that powers itself, saves money, and helps protect the planet.
