Habitat for Humanity has begun construction on a groundbreaking subdivision in Aurora. 

Each of the 17 homes in Habitat Green Freedom Subdivision will have solar panels and other technology meant to cut the net energy consumption to zero. Fox Valley Habitat Director of Operations Terri Jeffries says Nicor will study the homes for two years to see if they really are “net zero” and can serve as models for more home building nationwide.

Habitat for Humanity helps low-income people become homeowners. It keeps mortgage costs down through donations and volunteer labor when it can. Energy efficiency will keep the cost of living in a home down too.