Energy efficiency is an important part of our homeownership program. Prioritizing green building techniques is not only good for the environment, it provides long-term cost savings for our homeowners as well.
Whether we’re retrofitting an existing home or building a new one, we keep sustainability and energy efficiency in mind when choosing building materials, appliances and weatherization techniques. These considerations increase the durability of a home and use fewer resources.
Read on to learn more about Habitat for Humanity energy efficiency practices and the benefits they provide homeowners for years to come.
Habitat for Humanity Energy Efficiency Initiatives
Research done by Habitat for Humanity International has revealed that weatherizing older single-family homes can significantly reduce energy costs and the home’s environmental impact. Making home improvements to address issues including moisture control, ventilation, air sealing and insulation has been shown to reduce total energy costs by 12.4% within the first year for low-income households.
Better insulation and sealing results in expending less energy to heat and cool a home to make it comfortable. And that can mean a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, since the less energy used, the fewer fossil fuels burned. Weatherization can also extend the lifespan of the building materials used in a home, leading to less construction waste. And that translates into economic savings for homeowners.
Energy Efficiency Brings Long-Term Economic Advantages
After mortgage and homeowner association payments, utility costs are typically a family’s greatest monthly expense. By helping homeowners lower utility costs through our smart building choices, we open the door for families to increase their financial stability and savings. In fact, Habitat’s research has shown this correlation, with each year of homeownership associated with an additional $9,500 in net equity, on average across the U.S.
Cutting utility costs through energy efficiency allows homeowners to use that money they’ve saved on aspects of their lives where they may previously have had to cut back, such as healthcare, childcare and groceries. Habitat for Humanity energy efficiency initiatives don’t stop there: we work with our homeowners to educate them on energy-saving practices and how to keep their homes running efficiently, so they can enjoy the financial and environmental benefits long-term.
We’ve seen how the benefits of homeownership and increased financial stability span generations. When it comes to low-income households, our studies show children of homeowners are more likely to graduate from high school and complete post-secondary education than children of renters. For lower- and moderate-income households, a $10,000 increase in housing equity is correlated with a 14% increase in the probability that a child will attend college.
How Habitat Builds Sustainably
We are fortunate to work with many partners to improve the quality of the homes we build and renovate, and we continually explore ways to make our building practices more sustainable.
For example, the Silver Creek Village townhomes we just completed all have Energy Star appliances, which use less energy, and follow the National Green Build Standard. This certification program for residential construction provides guidelines for designing and constructing homes that are sustainable, cost-effective and geographically appropriate.
The program is in line with Habitat for Humanity energy efficiency practices since it addresses various aspects of new construction and remodels, including resource efficiency, energy efficiency, indoor air quality and building maintenance.
Support the Environment and Habitat for Humanity Homeowners
Show your appreciation for Habitat for Humanity energy efficiency initiatives by making a donation. Your support for the homeownership program helps us change the lives of folks who live and work in our community.
