From its conception, Richardsville Elementary was designed to be an affordable net zero facility. The design team explored numerous energy saving strategies to dramatically reduce energy consumption. By reducing energy use to 19.31 kBtus annually, the net zero goal could be realized through the implementation of a solar array capable of producing enough energy to meet the school's operating demands. Coupled with the goal of a LEED certified facility, the building's components were identified and implemented to affordably attain a facility that demonstrates a sustainable site, net zero energy, water efficiency, materials and resources conservation, and an indoor/outdoor environment that promotes a healthy, progressive learning atmosphere while reducing life cycle maintenance costs and zeroing out electricity costs.