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What is energy efficiency in homes?
What is housing's environmental impact?
Many homeowners, homebuilders, and researchers are very concerned with the dramatic increase in energy costs and the effect of housing on the energy supply. Some are also interested in protecting America's natural resources by ensuring that new homes do not overuse resources or disrupt their local environments. Still others are fascinated by new ways of recycling materials for construction and using renewable energy resources.
PATH's vision includes the goal of reducing the energy use and environmental impact of new housing by 50% and energy use in existing homes by 30% in the future. Technology has a clear relationship to the energy a house will use after it is built, as well as the resources consumed and pollution generated during its construction. PATH develops new energy- and resource-efficient systems, promotes the recycling of building materials, and helps homeowners and developers remodel their homes with technologies that are proven to reduce energy bills. PATH is fortunate to have as partners the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, two Federal agencies that have many activities and information to help people make environment-friendly choices.
Content updated on 9/1/2005
