Green competition driving down costs: Green products and building materials were a major focus at this month’s International Builders’ Show, where a record 363 exhibitors featured green products of one form or another. Although some are undoubtedly examples of mere greenwashing, more offerings may result in lower prices for green builders and would-be green home buyers, according to an Associated Press article. Read the story.
Green building requires a systems approach: Speaking to a Maryland chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, Dan Taddei urged his colleagues to treat a house as a complete system when building and remodeling green, rather than taking a piecemeal approach. Total commitment to a green philosophy by owner and crew is a key to success, he said. Read the story.
New Orleans’ new era of green enlightenment: Post-Katrina New Orleans is purging its environmentally unfriendly image and turning positively green, as rebuilding efforts show residents and local governments the money- and environment-saving benefits of renewable energy systems, sustainable materials, more efficient building systems, alternative forms of transportation, and habitat restoration. Also, the local BuildSmart Learning Center offers free workshops for builders and residents. Read the story.
Economic stimulus plan puts billions toward greener energy: Tens of billions of dollars in President Obama’s economic stimulus plan would go toward greening the nation’s electricity industry, employing 460,000 Americans in the energy industry and doubling the amount of alternative energy production over the next three years. The plan also would fund the weatherization of two million existing homes and efficiency improvements to 75 percent of federal buildings. Read the story.
Solar market transitioning away from rebate programs: As the solar industry grows and installations increase, even during the economic crisis, states are struggling to maintain taxpayer-funded solar rebate and incentive programs and are seeking other alternatives, such as performance-based incentives. But any new approach will send ripples throughout the solar industry with unpredictable results. Read the story.
Educational Webinar on green building incentives: On March 19, 2009, Tree Hugger Consulting will host “Green Building Incentives 2009: Where and How to Get Them,” a Webinar covering available tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient building techniques and materials. Residential and commercial new construction, remodels, additions, and building repairs will be covered. The Webinar is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. PDT. Cost is $20. To register, visit https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/861707592.
