The best way to build environmentally is to consider sustainability while each decision is made. From the moment you begin to draw up plans through your purchasing decisions, there’s plenty to consider so your new home or building has the least impact on the environment.
If you are building sustainably, you should consider one of the following programs to keep track of your progress and show off your achievements.
New Jersey ENERGY STAR Homes, New Jersey Zero Energy Ready Home, and Zero Energy Home + RE are programs designed to achieve energy efficiency standards for homes. In all three cases, builders allow independent raters to inspect and measure the home’s performance during and after construction. For more information, check out the NJ Clean Energy Program – Residential New Construction webpage.
Leadership In Energy And Environmental Design (LEED) provides a framework to create healthy, highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings. LEED homes are built to provide clean indoor air and use less energy and water. That means lower utility bills each month. For more information, visit the US Green Building Council – LEED webpage.
Passive House Institute US, Inc. (PHIUS) certifies homes that meet stringent passive building principles, including airtight construction, continuous ventilation, and resilient buildings that actively minimize the energy required by the home. Learn more at PHIUS certification webpage.