100511 lessons from new construction

SavingThe PlanetOne HouseAt A Time

G r e e n E a r t h E q u i t i e s . C o m © 2010

Lessons From New Construction



New vs Retrofit (Renovation)This discussion has been going on for decades. It

has usually focused on, “How are they different?”

Instead, let’s look at,“How are they the same?” &

“Why are they more the same for Investors than for Contractors?”& most importantly,

“What can be learned?”



Q. What Is Building America?A. A US Dept of Energy Program that focuses on

New Construction Building. Although not limited to “production” builders, production builders who rely on

repetition and systems have been the main area

of focus.



Research Teams

There are several research teams throughout the country.

All are specializing in “pushing the envelope” with the end

goal of producing “Zero Energy Houses”

This goal has milestones along the way but the big milestone

is 2030



It’s Free!

Unlike proprietary research, all of the research done by DOE is funded by taxpayers, (you)

So the research is in the public domain and available.

Take advantage! You’ve paid for it.



Areas Of FitAreas where this research and

approach may fit better for Energy Wise Investors than

Home Performance Contractors.

1. It is Prescriptive Based with some Performance Criteria.

(that works well for us and is what we do at

GreenEarthEquities)



Areas of Fit2. It is geared to the Whole

House Approach.

(that is also the GreenEarthEquities

approach, especially when we rip out everything and

start with a shell.... It is more like new construction than

typical remodel contracting)



Areas of Fit3. The System Is Available, at least

for guidance, for no cost.

90+% of this new industry runs on ratings, modelings, certification,

rebates, All of which cost money...

But as we minimize those expenses we have more money left to

actually save energy with.

So voluntary compliance to this national standard for free,

SEEMS LIKE A GOOD IDEA!



Summary of Builders Challenge



Sample Rating Card



http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/about.html





http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/building%5Famerica/



100511 lessons from new construction

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