Essential Links

Affordable Sustainability [PDF]
Abstract: This website guides users to incorporate sustainable design into affordable housing. The site has application to all building projects with sustainable or resource-efficient design and construction goals.
Source: National Center For Appropriate Technology (NCAT)
Resource Type: Web site

Building on a Green Budget
Abstract: Low-cost green design and construction practices for commercial and residential construction.
Source: Environmental Building News prepared by Building Green, Inc.
Resource Type: Article/report

Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE)
Abstract: The Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy (DSIRE) is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and selected federal incentives that promote renewable energy. Overall, this is an outstanding resource.
Source: Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC)
Resource Type: Article/report

Green Built Home Buyers Guide: Suggested Priorities for Incorporating Environmental Responsibility into Home Building
Abstract: Green Built Home (Wisconsin) provides this "top 10" list of measures to reduce the environmental impact of home building. It focuses on where a homebuyer might get the best environmental result for the money. Sample strategies are provided.
Source: Wisconsin Environmental Initiative
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

State Recycling Tax Incentives
Abstract: Descriptions of tax credits, deductions, and exemptions for recycling related activities, ie. equipment purchases, product purchases, etc. by state. Tax incentives apply to a variety of businesses and individuals as shown.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: List

Best of the Rest Links

Energy Efficiency Makes Homes More Affordable [PDF]
Abstract: Long-term savings raise the quality and affordability of a house (mortgage); Covers methods of achieving energy efficiency without great cost including HVAC, ventilation, air leakage, windows, water conservation, lighting, and appliances.
Source: Southface Energy Institute
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Fannie Mae Supports Affordable Building
Abstract: A state by state list of Fannie Mae mortgage offices throughout the country.
Source: FannieMae
Resource Type: List

Frost Protected Shallow Foundations [PDF]
Abstract: Frost protected shallow foundations are energy efficient, resource efficient and are reported as saving up to 40% in foundation costs. Approved for slab-on-grade construction for heated buildings in the CABO/ICC their use is spreading. This 12-page guide explains how they work, the benefits involved, where they are approved, and more.
Source: National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB)
Resource Type: Article/report

GoodCents Homes - Energy Efficient and Environmental Homes
Abstract: Energy efficient certification program for builders; training, certification, marketing and mortgage information for builders and consumers.
Source: GoodCents
Resource Type: Web site

Green Construction: Specific Project Resources
Abstract: Links to articles, software, and funding organizations. Includes discussions about budgeting, commissioning, incentives, etc.
Source: Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center
Resource Type: List

Green Construction: Water and Energy
Hard Copy Publication - Questions to consider and resources to help with energy and water design, including technical assistance and incentives.
Source: Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center

Home Energy Rating System and Energy Efficient Mortgage
Abstract: Links to home energy ratings and energy mortgages.
Source: Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET)
Resource Type: List

Homes Across America
Abstract: This site profiles resource efficient homes throughout the country, highlighting techniques and technologies appropriate for specific sites, climatic conditions, and affordability ranges.
Source: Peaks to Prairies Pollution Prevention Information Center
Resource Type: Case study/success story

Incentives, Programs and Policies Search Form
Abstract: Click on the renewable energy (RE) directory icon for a state list.
Source: Home Power
Resource Type: List

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Economic and Housing Data
Abstract: List of statistics and information for various aspects of the home building industry.
Source: National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
Resource Type: List

Net Metering [PDF]
Abstract: Questions and Answers (Q&A) that cover basics in net metering and information about individual state laws.
Source: Department of Energy
Resource Type: List

Radiant Barriers [PDF]
Abstract: Benefits and cautions of using a radiant barrier to create more efficient heating and cooling; includes cost and savings estimates.
Source: Southface Energy Institute
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

This Topic Hub is a product of the Pollution Prevention Resource Exchange (P2RX)™

The Residential Construction Topic Hub was developed by: Peaks to Prairies Pollution Prevention Center Contact (Peaks) 406-994-3451 or information@peakstoprairies.org