Monday, August 25, 2008

Energy management and carbon credits

As they grapple with rising energy costs, more homeowners are turning to remodelers for money-saving solutions. According to the results of the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) quarterly Remodeling Market Index (RMI), 33% of surveyed remodelers report that they are increasingly called on to improve the energy efficiency of their client’s homes.The RMI measures remodeler perceptions of market demand for current and future residential remodeling projects.
NAHB is preparing for the upcoming National Green Building Standard, which includes a consensus rating system for remodeling. This standard provides a roadmap for green remodeling and assures consumers that remodelers know how to plan and complete authentically green remodels.According to the survey, remodelers have installed a number of efficiency-enhancing products in recent months, including:• Windows—73% of surveyed remodelers installed more energy-efficient windows that are insulated to prevent outdoor heat exchange.• Insulation—65% made upgrades such as insulation replacement and spraying foam or fiber insulation into enclosed walls and roof cavities, while 27% insulated foundations and 52% installed insulated exterior doors.• High-efficiency HVAC systems (56%)• High-efficiency kitchen appliances (47%)• Water-saving faucets and fixtures (46%)

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