The Santa Monica-based design studio Minarc partnered with Habitat for Humanity and non-profit Restore Neighborhoods LA to build three modular, net-zero energy homes in the poorest neighborhood of South Los Angeles. Using Minarc’s interlocking panel system, called mnmMOD, framing and construction of the home can be completed in as little as eight hours. The pre-cut polystyrene foam panels fit into a slotted, recycled steel frame with a thermal break and waterproof membrane, and the roofs are fitted with solar panels. According to jetsongreen.com, the mnmMOD system has been approved by the International Building Code (IBC) and by LA’s Building and Safety Department standards. The buyers median income will have to be below 120 percent of the area median income to qualify. MHProNews.com recently posted a story about polystyrene paneled houses being provided for low income residents of Kenya.

(Photo credit: jetsongreen.com–modular home by Minarc of Santa Monica, Calif.)