Rising energy costs and an increased focus on conservation have inspired more of today's home builders to incorporate technologies and features in their new homes that not only make the houses more comfortable, but also more energy efficient with less impact on the surrounding environment.

A distinguished group of these energy-conscious builders will be honored for their vision on Feb. 7, 2007, at the Energy-Value Housing Awards (EVHA) ceremony held during the 2007 International Builders' Show in Orlando, Fla. During its 12-year history, the EVHA has recognized builders who voluntarily integrate energy efficiency into the design, construction, and marketing of their new homes. The EVHA has also been active in educating builders and the public about energy-efficient home building.

Finalists were evaluated by a panel of noted energy-efficiency experts, for the energy value, design, construction methods and processes, and marketing in the categories of affordable, custom, factory-built, production, and multifamily. Hot, moderate, and cold climate regions will be judged separately. One finalist will also earn the prestigious designation of EVHA Builder of the Year.

Finalists for 2007 include:

Aspen Homes of Colorado, Loveland, Colo.; Bob Ward Cos., Edgewood, Md.; Ferrier Builders, Fort Worth, Texas; Fireside Home Construction, Dexter, Mich.; Gary Dorris, Central Point, Ore.; Grupe Green Co., Stockton, Calif.; Holton Homes, Nampa, Idaho; LivingHomes, Santa Monica, Calif.; Yavapai College, Chino Valley, Ariz.; and Veridian Homes, Madison, Wis.

The EVHA program is coordinated by the NAHB Research Center in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the NAHB. This year, the ceremony's keynote address will be presented by Lorraine Bolsinger, vice president of Ecomagination for General Electric. EVHA winners will be announced at the ceremony, but there's still time to choose your favorite home design and vote for the EVHA People's Choice award online. Visit the EVHA Web site at www.nahbrc.org/evha to vote and to purchase dinner ceremony tickets online. For more information, contact Kevin Mo, EVHA program manager, at 301-430-6210 or [email protected].

Learn more about markets featured in this article: Dallas, TX.