USGBC Joins Home Energy Information Accelerator to Expand Home Energy Efficiency in the U.S.
A National Push for Green Building and Energy Savings
Washington, D.C. (May 28, 2015) — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced two new Better Buildings Accelerators to help advance home energy efficiency across the country. As part of this initiative, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has joined the Home Energy Information Accelerator to build home energy efficiency nationwide. This partnership will expand sustainable building practices and provide homeowners with the tools to make their houses healthier, greener, and more efficient.
Homes as the Foundation of Sustainability
Rick Fedrizzi, CEO of USGBC, stressed that homes are at the center of sustainable living. He explained that houses protect families and represent the largest investment for many Americans. By building energy-efficient new homes and upgrading existing ones, homeowners can save money, increase property values, and reduce their carbon footprint. Fedrizzi called healthy and efficient homes the future. He also regarded this accelerator as a critical step to build home energy efficiency.
Supporting the President’s Climate Action Plan
The Better Buildings Initiative, launched in 2013, helps consumers understand the benefits of energy efficiency while streamlining upgrades. The Home Energy Information Accelerator also supports the President’s Climate Action Plan, driving investments that cut energy use. It aims to build home energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve community resilience nationwide.
(Internal link idea: Tie this section to your “Green Living for Beginners” guide to show readers how efficiency fits into the bigger climate picture.)
Tools to Help Homeowners Save Energy
To deliver on its commitment, USGBC relaunched Green Home Guide, a consumer resource designed to help families lower energy and water bills through practical upgrades. At the same time, the council expanded LEED for Homes, already including over 186,000 residential units. Educational resources are also being developed to help homeowners build home energy efficiency. These resources will help homeowners understand energy ratings, certifications, and sustainable design.
Commitment to Greener Homes
Taryn Holowka, USGBC’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, Communications & Advocacy, said the partnership strengthens their mission in the residential sector. By expanding LEED for Homes and giving consumers easy access to sustainability information, homeowners gain knowledge and confidence in making informed choices. This invaluable information empowers them to embrace energy-efficient practices and implement eco-friendly improvements in their living spaces. Consequently, these enhancements not only contribute to a reduced carbon footprint but also promote healthier indoor environments. Moreover, as homeowners engage with sustainable building practices, they play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of sustainability that benefits communities and future generations alike. Therefore, they can build home energy efficiency with eco-friendly improvements that enhance both their quality of life and the overall well-being of the planet.
Energy Savings That Benefit Families and the Planet
DOE’s Under Secretary for Science and Energy, Franklin Orr, highlighted the broad benefits of better building performance. He emphasized that such improvements not only enhance the comfort and livability of homes but also play a critical role in advancing environmental sustainability. By implementing innovative energy-saving measures, improving efficiency saves families money on their utility bills, reduces pollution in the atmosphere, and lowers demand on the power grid. These actions ultimately contribute to a more resilient energy infrastructure. Furthermore, expanding initiatives into residential and water efficiency empowers American households to directly participate in the nation’s climate and energy goals. This encourages more responsible resource consumption and greater awareness of energy conservation. Through these efforts, a collective push towards a greener future is possible. This multifaceted approach not only benefits individual households but also strengthens communities. As a result, it enhances the overall quality of life across the country.
Building the Future of Real Estate Transparency
The Home Energy Information Accelerator is designed to make home energy data — such as certifications and usage estimates — more transparent in real estate transactions. It aims to connect leaders in real estate, utilities, and energy. Consequently, the program will create models that make efficiency information standard when buying or selling homes. Partners will share their progress in the Better Buildings Residential Program Solution Center. There, they will offer replicable strategies to build home energy efficiency in communities nationwide.
The Path to a More Efficient America
DOE set a goal of improving energy efficiency in U.S. buildings by 20 percent over the next decade. Achieving this ambitious target would save consumers billions of dollars. It would create thousands of jobs and significantly cut carbon pollution, thereby contributing to the fight against climate change.
Additionally, it will make American homes healthier and more sustainable, providing families with greater comfort and well-being. For families, this means more money in their pockets due to reduced utility bills. Cleaner air for their children to breathe will be available. Moreover, it fosters stronger communities that are better equipped to address environmental challenges. As energy efficiency measures are implemented, there will be a ripple effect. This encourages innovation in green technologies and fosters a culture of sustainability. These efforts benefit future generations as well.
