ENERGY PROGRAMS

ENERGY STAR qualified homes are independently verified to be at least 30% more energy efficient than homes built to the 1993 national Model Energy Code or 15% more efficient than state energy code, whichever is more rigorous. These savings are based on heating, cooling, and hot water energy use and are typically achieved through a combination of:
• building envelope upgrades,
• high performance windows
• controlled air infiltration,
• upgraded heating and air conditioning systems
• tight duct systems and
• upgraded water-heating equipment

LSSA homes meet and exceed ENERGY STAR standards. Using Energy-10 and Energy Scheming (v3.), LSSA determines the energy loads for your project.

PROTECTING THE FORESTS
Forest Stewardship Council
was created to change the dialogue about and the practice of sustainable forestry worldwide.

COOLFUEL USA ROADTRIP

Over a year ago we met this Australian filming crew that had traveled over 15,000 continuous miles in the US on alternative fuels, no gasoline. We fueled their electric vehicles with our home photovoltaic system. (Episode #12)

RECOMMENDED ORGANIZATIONS

One of the best environmentally active organizations is the Rocky Mountain Institute. A non-profit organization, RMI fosters “the efficient and restorative use of resources to make the world secure, just, prosperous, and life-sustaining. “ They do this “by inspiring business, civil society, and government to design integrative solutions that create true wealth.”

DCAT a non-profit organization that draws on extensive experience in traditional and alternative building and development, providing strategic support for the shift to sustainable building practices.