KBS Net Zero Trailer 2 Project

In 2022, the first KBS Net-Zero Energy trailer (known as “NZT”) was completed and sent off to its first project at our Springdale Park project site. This trailer has now been in operation for over 2 years and is currently set-up at it’s second project at 900 North Allen. After mobilization in the summer of 2022, the NZT performed beautifully while consistently producing more energy than was necessary to operate the trailer. During the NZT’s duration at the Springdale Park project, we were able to maintain a fully supported net-zero status without using a generator.

Due to the huge success of the NZT, we have now completed a second Net-Zero Energy Trailer that is known as “NZT2”. Now in our second generation of this endeavor, a few enhancements have been included in the design of NZT2. This includes the following:

While smaller in size (12×44 vs 12×60), the solar panels have a higher efficiency rating that gives a total off-grid photovoltaic system of 11.31 kW versus the 11.1 kW system on NZT1.
The HVAC system features a multi-zone mini-split system that requires a smaller overall load.
The insulation and air sealing package included more enhanced detailing that allowed us to achieve 1.42 ACH50 as verified via blower door testing. This is a massive upgrade to the code minimum of 5.0 ACH50 and also exceeds the DOE Zero Energy Ready requirement of 2.5 ACH50 in Climate Zone 4.
High efficiency windows that have been designed to absorb more heat in the winter months when total solar energy generation is less.
A Lumin Smart Panel has been installed to manage the loads and maintain battery life during cloudy days and the winter months.

These upgrades allow the NZT2 to increase solar energy production, decrease user energy consumption and provide a user-friendly environment where on-site personnel do not have to worry about load shedding and maintaining power during periods of low solar exposure.

In addition to maintaining our jobsite trailers as a complete off-grid solution, both NZT1 and NZT2 have been outfitted with upgraded finishes, appliances and amenities. This not only increases the comforts of our KBS team, design partners and owners, but also reflects the high-quality projects that we continue to deliver each year!

A big thank you to our project partners!