Energy efficient homes are less costly to own, operate and maintain, and they are more comfortable. Americans spend more than $160 billion a year to heat, cool, light, and live in our homes. This energy represents about 21 percent of the national total and includes significant demand for electricity and natural gas. Many households could save 20-30 percent on their household energy bills by implementing energy efficiency improvements. Energy Savers primarily focuses on existing homes — both owned and rented. The following Web links are designed to provide practical information to improve the energy efficiency of their properties to homeowners and rental property owners wishing to make improvements.
ENERGY STAR®
The ENERGY STAR Web site provides information about a voluntary labeling program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Information helps consumers and businesses easily identify highly efficient products, homes, and buildings that save energy and money, while protecting the environment.
http://www.energystar.gov/
Products that earn the ENERGY STAR
When looking for new household products, look for ones that have earned the ENERGY STAR. They meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and DOE.
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=find_a_product.
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
An innovative whole-house approach to improving the comfort and energy efficiency of your home that depends on qualified contractors who perform a top to bottom energy inspection of your home and make improvements. Find out if it is available in your area.
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_improvement.hm_improvement_hpwes.
Tax Credits from the Energy Policy Act of 2005
This site from the IRS provides information on tax credits for individuals who make energy efficient home improvements or who purchase hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles.
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=153397,00.html
Energy Savers
The Energy Savers Web site offers information and tips to improve energy efficiency for both buildings and transportation and highlights specific components and practices that contribute to better energy efficiency.
http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/
Consumer Guide to Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
The most complete guide to the world of renewable energy and energy efficiency options offering information on ways to save energy for both residential and commercial buildings, including ways to generate electricity on-site, and how to buy energy efficient vehicles.
http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/
Energy Solutions for Your Home
From A to Z energy questions about your home, condo or apartment, this site offers a comprehensive set of suggestions on home energy efficiency measures, as well as an overview of home energy use.
http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/info/homes/index.html
Home Energy Efficiency Mortgages
Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs) recognize that reduced utility expenses can permit a homeowner to pay a higher mortgage to cover the cost of the energy improvements on top of the approved mortgage. FHA EEMs provide mortgage insurance for a person to purchase or refinance a principal residence and incorporate the cost of energy-efficient improvements into the mortgage. The borrower does not have to qualify for the additional money and does not make a down payment on it. The mortgage loan is funded by a lending institution, such as a mortgage company, bank, or savings and loan association, and the mortgage is insured by HUD.
http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/energyenviron/energy/apply/fha.cfm