Welcome To The “Green” Housing Revolution…
Wherever you turn these days, it seems that someone is talking about “Green,” or “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified buildings, and “Zero 
Energy Homes.” Each of these share a commitment to reduced energy consumption and the “re-use, repurposing and recycling of materials,” “improved indoor air quality” and use of “environmentally friendly” and “renewable products.” Green or LEED buildings generally generate 20 to 70 percent in energy savings, while a Zero Energy Home (ZEH) by definition must generate enough energy to meet or exceed its own heating, cooling and electrical needs in any given year.
With all of the recent attention being given to energy conservation, you might not realize that a handful of individuals began vigorously exploring ways to significantly reduce energy consumption in the early 1970’s. Since then, energy saving practices have been refined and expanded and have been incorporated into projects ranging from small homes to large commercial buildings, schools and fire stations to government buildings. Recent projects have successfully demonstrated the economic viability and sustainability of incorporating rigorous energy and conservation standards into new construction without increasing budgets or extending schedules.
Many conservation efforts are most easily incorporated at the time of initial construction, however some are easily adapted either as a stand-alone project or as part of routine equipment replacement.
In this 5 part series we will explore “green” homes and construction, as well as ways to incorporate them into your current or next home… Keep a eye out for parts 2-5 in the coming days…
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