Consumer interest in green building is clearly on the rise, with concern over energy prices and climate change as two of the driving factors. And while the definition of green building is still in the process of being determined and fully understood by the residential industry, you might be surprised to hear that many people don't naturally associate energy efficiency with green building. Some builders, however, have made the connection between the two and are using inventive methods to turn the American dream, with an environmentally sustainable twist, into reality.
A distinguished group of these energy-conscious builders will be honored for their vision on Feb. 13, 2008, with the EnergyValue Housing Awards (EVHAs) during a ceremony at the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Fla. During its 13-year history, the EVHA program has recognized builders who voluntarily integrate energy efficiency into the design, construction, and marketing of their new homes. The program has also educated builders and the public about the diverse approaches available for creating homes that are not only high performing but also attractive and sustainable.
EVHA finalists are evaluated by a panel of noted energy-efficiency experts for their energy value, design, construction methods and processes, and marketing in the categories of affordable, custom, factory-built, production, and multifamily, for hot, moderate, and cold climate regions. Each year, one finalist also earns the notable designation of Builder of the Year for the most inventive design.
The EVHA program is coordinated by the NAHB Research Center in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the NAHB. This year, the EVHA program was honored by the Energy and Environmental Building Association and named one of the 25 most significant contributors to the promotion and development of residential building performance.
Visit www.nahbrc.org/evha to vote online for your favorite EVHA home design and to purchase EVHA ceremony tickets. For more information, contact Kevin Mo, EVHA program manager, at 301-430-6210 or [email protected].
