Net-zero homes and production homes that come with solar panels are becoming more and more common. Now, SolarCity, one of the nation’s leading solar providers, and Shea Homes, one of the largest prvaitely-held homebuilders in the U.S., are the latest to team up and offer a “no electricity bill” home.

“No Electricity Bill” Solar Homes

The homes are to be available “in all Shea Homes Active Lifestyle(r) and Trilogy(r) communities in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada and Washington,” SolarCity reports.

“Branded as SheaXero the no electric bill home(tm), the partnership with SolarCity will make net-zero the standard offering at all ten of Shea’s Active Lifestyle and Trilogy Communities. SheaXero homes aim to achieve net-zero electric bills by generating as much electricity as they consume1 through a blend of energy-efficient features and a solar power system that is included in the home’s purchase price.”

SolarCity Continues Growth in Midst of Lawsuit

SolarCity is the top residential solar installer in the U.S., holding 14% of the market share in Q1-Q3 of 2011.

“Shea’s partnership with SolarCity is expected to be one of the largest net-zero electric home projects in the U.S. when completed. The partnership allows SolarCity to provide solar services to homeowners in Florida and Nevada for the first time.”

With homeowners paying thousands of dollars a year in energy costs, you know that a “no electricity bill” home is an attractive buy. I know I’d buy one if I had the opportunity.

KB Home, a large, national home builder, recently started offering net-zero homes in California, Las Vegas, and elsewhere. KB Home, however, has teamed up with SunPower to offer its net-zero homes. SunPower, one of the largest solar companies in the world, recently sued SolarCity over ex-employees taking confidential data from the company before moving to SolarCity.