Green Me Now

The Energy Star program has claimed its one-millionth energy-efficient home. Features of these new homes include effective insulation, high-performance windows, tight construction, efficient heating/cooling equipment, and efficient appliances.

The program, which began in 1995, is a joint project of the EPA and Department of Energy. The partners claim that owners of the million homes “will save more than $270 million this year on their utility bills, while avoiding greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 370,000 vehicles.”

Among the top markets for these homes are greater New York and Columbus, OH, though sunny Texas, Nevada, Arizona and California are the hands-down winners.

Energy Star’s focus is not restricted to new homes, however. Its Home Improvement page describes how “a knowledgeable homeowner” can save as much as 20% on heating and cooling costs by sealing and insulating, and it provides a do-it-yourself guide.