The average consumer understands that their habits and lifestyle affects energy usage.  But the same consumer probably doesn't understand that their new house is working for them to save money and conserve energy.  The Riverside BIA and its members have created a local Green Builder Program to give homebuyers the option to make an environmentally friendly investment when purchasing a new home.

Riverside BIA's Green Builder Program sets the bar in energy efficiency!  Building standards set by the program are 15 percent above Title 24 requirements, some of the strictest in the nation. This voluntary program has several energy saving aspects including:

• Energy efficiency: Homes built are 15 percent more efficient than California's energy standards

• Water conservation: Builders use state of the art irrigation systems and smart landscaping

• Wood conservation: Lumber used is grown in sustainable forests

• Construction waste diversion: Builders divert at least 50 percent of the jobsite waste from local landfills

Keeping Cost Down

In addition to making the new homes environmentally friendly, The Riverside BIA has worked to ensure that the new green buildings are easy on the wallet. California Building Association President, Robert Rivinius, states, "Each California Green Builder home saves buyers an average of $15 to $30 per month on their energy bill. Each home saves enough water each year to fill a backyard swimming pool. And each home saves at least two trees from being cut down. The program is a win-win for buyers and the environment alike,"

Click here for more information to learn more about what California's home builders are doing to increase energy efficiency in new homes.