By LINDA CAWLEY
You're thinking about buying or building a new home, and you've read or heard a little about homes that are more energy efficient than the average home. Just what does that mean, and how do builders learn to make those homes more energy efficient?
Homes that earn the Energy Star certification must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These qualified homes are at least 30 percent more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code.
Energy Star-qualified homes include a variety of energy-efficient features, including effective insulation, high-performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and Energy Star-qualified lighting and appliances.
These features contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution. Energy Star also encourages the use of energy-efficient lights and appliances, as well as features designed to improve indoor air quality.
Every year, the Energy Division, along with several co-sponsors, conducts a series of training workshops for builders who are interested in constructing Energy Star homes. Co-sponsors include Idaho Power Co., Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The annual Idaho Builder Energy Conference in March will bring builders together to discuss the most recent information on insulation, air conditioners and heat pumps. The latest research in airflow design in energy-efficient homes will also be featured.
The theme is "Sustainable Homes for a Sustainable Future." The two-day conference will feature several speakers, including Joe Lstiburek, one of the world's foremost authorities on energy-efficient construction techniques.
"More people are seeing the advantages of owning an energy-efficient home constructed by trained and certified builders," said Doug Plourde, energy specialist and Idaho Energy Star program manager.
"Several Energy Division programs are designed to provide technical assistance to builders, remodelers and homeowners throughout Idaho. Without these training programs, people would have to travel out of state to obtain certified training at a much greater expense," said Plourde.
For more information on builder training programs, call the Idaho Energy Hotline, at (800) 334-SAVE, or contact Plourde at (208) 287-4903 or doug.plourde@idwr.idaho.gov. Additional information is also available on the Energy Division's Web site at www.idwr.idaho.gov/energy. Linda Cawley is the information specialist for the Idaho Department of Water Resources.
Linda Cawley is the information specialist for the Idaho Department of Water Resources.
