As energy codes tighten and demand for sustainable housing grows, builders, contractors, and DIYers are rethinking how small homes are designed and powered. Through case studies and hands-on experience, we’ll discuss how to select the right heating and water heating systems, navigate code requirements, and integrate solar and net metering at both individual and community levels. Attendees will learn how to reduce embodied carbon through smart design choices and how insulation, window placement, and appliance selection impact overall energy efficiency.

We’ll also introduce a hybrid approach to construction: building the core structure with key systems in place, then finishing out electric appliances and upgrades through DIY or phased-in solutions. This makes tiny homes more attainable and flexible for a wide range of budgets.

Join us to learn how electrification, renewables, and smart design come together in today’s tiny homes. You will also hear insights from experienced professionals on how to work around common electrical limitations, access incentives, and push beyond standard propane-based systems toward 100% renewable living.

Whether you’re a professional contractor or a hands-on DIY builder, this session will give you practical strategies for creating low-impact, high-performance homes that align with evolving codes and sustainability goals.

Panelist:

Stacey Murphy-O’Galdez, Owner, Mystic Design by Stacey & The Vixen Academy
Stacey is a tiny home dweller, DIYer and designer who is the visionary of Mystic Design. She has been featured internationally in the Business Insider and her tiny home, named The Tiny Vixen, can be seen on top tiny lifestyle channels, including Tiny Home Tours and Tiny Home Giant Journey.

Lindsay Woods, Owner, Tiny Home Lady Consulting 
Lindsay Wood, aka the “Tiny Home Lady” is on a mission help 100,000 families unlock housing solutions as ADUs, primary homes and movable tiny momes. Lindsay is the creator of the online course GO TiNY! Academy and offers GO TiNY! VIP Tours at tiny home events to quickly connect attendees with answers to their tiny home questions. The Tiny Home Lady has been featured live on FOX KTVU, and KUSI TV, CBS, Business Insider, Mercury News, East Bay Times, and Press Democrat among others.

Drew Witmer, Owner, JCLAY.CO

Drew is a designer and builder with over 25 years of experience in the construction industry. Through his company, JCLAY.CO, he has created award-winning tiny homes, custom builds, and sustainable projects featured on Tiny House Nation and A&E’s Living Smaller. Having lived tiny for six years, Drew brings firsthand insight into designing spaces that are highly functional, energy-efficient, and stylish. He is currently focused on developing ultra-sustainable communities that integrate micro-grids, water harvesting, and local food production.

Moderator:

Grant Sheely, Technical Associate, Codes and Policy, New Buildings Institute
Grant has experience managing sustainability and certification projects as well as contributing to corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy. Prior to joining NBI, he coordinated LEED, PHIUS, and Fitwel Certification projects, performing field inspections, energy modeling with WUFI Software, and compliance with high-performance program requirements and local/state codes. His ability to work with clients, architects, MEP designers, and certification organizations make him an asset in resolving design and construction issues while also contributing to decarbonization strategies and facilitating client incentives.

Supported by

Explore free courses on energy efficiency and electrification with The LEARN Program. LEARN’s interactive learning hub covers topics like building design & construction, HVAC and hot water systems, renewable energy, and more resources to help you electrify your own home. Start learning today at sandiegolearn.com.