Alliance to Save Energy Announces Support for New Energy Efficiency Standards in HUD- and USDA-Financed Housing Construction

The Alliance to Save Energy supports the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in their recent decision to adopt new energy efficiency standards for the construction of housing financed by these departments.

Over the past year, the Alliance has collaborated with numerous stakeholders to push for the adoption of updated building energy codes, a move that promises significant savings and environmental benefits. The finalized standards are anticipated to reduce annual energy costs by an average of $963 for single-family homes. This initiative will not only enhance energy efficiency but also ensure long-term affordability and promote sustainable housing practices, especially in underserved communities.

"These updated standards represent a pivotal step towards more equitable, affordable, and environmentally friendly housing solutions," said Sapna Dowla, Associate Vice President, Policy & Research for the Alliance to Save Energy. "Energy-efficient homes offer a dual benefit of cost savings and improved comfort, particularly crucial during extreme weather conditions."

The initiative is part of a broader effort to alleviate the energy burden on low- and moderate-income households and to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Predictions suggest a substantial reduction in carbon emissions over the coming years. Despite concerns about initial costs, the long-term savings are expected to more than compensate, making these homes more affordable in the long run.

About the Alliance to Save Energy

Founded in 1977, the Alliance to Save Energy is a leading energy efficiency coalition in the nation - a nonprofit, bipartisan alliance of business, government, environmental and consumer leaders advocating for enhanced energy efficiency investments across all sectors of the economy.