Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga was recently awarded with the Energy Star 3.0 Certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Energy Star is a joint program of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy. Presently, Energy Star 3.0 is the highest energy efficient building benchmarks set by the EPA.
The local Habitat affiliate has been recognized as the first builder to earn this certification in Greater Chattanooga and one of the first Habitat affiliates in the Southeast.
“We are truly committed to building sustainable and energy efficient homes for working families in the Chattanooga area,” said David Butler, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga. “This certification demonstrates our ongoing commitment to ensure that Habitat homes are not only affordable for families to purchase but also affordable to maintain.”
To achieve the Energy star 3.0 certification, Habitat for Humanity’s construction team completed the following water saving and building waste reduction methods:
· Installation of a complete thermal enclosure system with comprehensive air sealing, quality installed insulation, and high performance windows, to deliver improved comfort and lower utility bills.
· Installation of a high efficiency heating, ventilating, and cooling system that is designed and installed for optimal performance.
· Installation of a comprehensive water management system to protect roofs, wall, and foundations from moisture damage.
· Homes are equipped with energy efficient lighting and appliances to help keep utility bills low, while providing high-quality performance and longevity.
“While many of the features are out of sight (behind walls, in the attic, and under the foundation, etc), these hidden details have a huge impact on our homeowners experience living in their new home,” said Dennis Neal, director of Construction and Land Development at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga Area. “In fact, the features and modifications made under the 3.0 Certification enable families living in the all electric 1,100 square foot Habitat homes to save an average of 33% on their energy bills.”
Presently, eight Habitat homes have been built over the past year using the Energy Star 3.0 guidelines. Prior to the 3.0 certification, Habitat built under the Energy Star 2.5 Certification.