Verne Barry Place, Grand Rapids, MI

There are many reasons to build ENERGY STAR qualified homes. LISC assists in creating affordable housing by providing funding to CDCs, and should make a commitment to funding energy efficient projects. These projects are not only more affordable for the residents, but better for the planet.

The following are the reasons listed on the ENERGY STAR for Qualified Homes website:

ADDED CONFIDENCE

• ENERGY STAR qualified homes are built to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines, so that is one less thing to worry about when purchasing a new home.

LOWER OWNERSHIP COST

• ENERGY STAR qualified homes use substantially less energy than standard homes. It is estimated that an ENERGY STAR qualified home can deliver $200 to $400 in annual savings.
• Additional savings on maintenance can also be substantial.
• Financing your home purchase using an energy efficient mortgage can also lead to savings.

BETTER PERFORMANCE

• Energy efficient homes are more comfortable because they deliver better protection against cold, heat, drafts, moisture, pollution, and noise.
• An energy-efficient home helps ensure consistent temperatures between and across rooms, improved indoor air quality, and greater durability.

SMART INVESTMENT

• ENERGY STAR qualified homes will have an increasingly valued feature when the time comes to sell.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

• 16 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are generated from the energy used in houses nationwide.
• Energy used in our homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and global warming.
• The less energy we use in our homes, the less air pollution we generate.