Energy Efficiency for Builders

Buildings are responsbile for over 40% of the energy use in the United States, and numerous programs exist to make energy efficiency easy for home builders, architects, code officials, and others in the building and construction field.

Building America, a program of the U.S. Department of Energy, researches how energy efficiency and solar energy technologies can result in zero net energy consumption from non-renewable energy sources.  Findings from this program reveal that a "near zero energy" home can out perform traditional homes in energy use and comfort, even in record temperatures.

ENERGY STAR Homes are at least 15% more efficient than homes built to the International Residential Code (IRC).  These homes provide numerous benefits, including lower ownership costs, better performance, increased property value, and reduced emissions from higher efficiency.

Model Green Home Building Guidelines from the National Home Builders Association are designed to be a tool kit for the individual builder looking to engage in energy efficienct and green building practices.  To download the guidelines for FREE, visit the link above .

For details about the loal Utah Green Building Inititive click here

Financial incentives for Home Builders

ThermWise natural gas efficiency program from Questar offers rebates to builders who install high-efficiency gas aplpiances and construct to ENERGY STAR guidelines.

Rocky Mountain Power's ENERGY STAR New Homes program offers financial incentives to contractors who build energy-efficient homes. Valuable incentives exist for numerous energy-saving measures and upgrades.

Federal tax incentives also exist for builders who construct homes above the Utah Energy Code (International Energy Conservation Code, or IECC).  Home builders are eligible for a $2,000 tax credit for a new energy efficient home that achieves 50% energy savings above code. There is also a $1,000 tax credit for homes achieving 30% energy savings above code. At least 1/5 of the energy savings must come from building envelope improvements.