Production builders have long eluded sustainability in the name of affordability. With the national expansion of their "Partners in Sustainable Building Program," though, Habitat for Humanity and The Home Depot Foundation are raising the bar for this industry segment.
During the next five years, 123 Habitat affiliates representing 45 states will build 5,000 homes that meet Energy Star or more rigid national or regional green building standards.
In setting an example for the industry, the program extends the affordability piece to more than 5,000 qualifying families by cutting maintenance and utility costs. Data from the pilot program show high-efficiency appliances and equipment saved families up to 50% in energy costs and 30% in water costs.
"The extra cost in mortgage that we are subsidizing for these homes is about $7 a month, and the average saving in utilities is $40 a month," says Caffarelli. "This makes economic sense."
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