The U.S. DOE Building Technologies Program has a long track record of providing world-class research and deployment promoting energy efficient residential and commercial buildings. For residential buildings, the current mission is to reduce the energy required for new homes by 50% and for existing homes by 40 to 50%, all at costs less than the costs of the energy saved. This mission is achieved through world-class research and diverse deployment programs. Accomplishments includes: hundreds of advanced technology and best building practice innovations; technical assistance directly to hundreds of builders and contractors and broadly to all stakeholders through training and webinars; a broad range of technical guidance including reference guides, reports, case studies, and measure/cost data base; product labeling to guide consumers including Builders Challenge and ENERGY STAR; research tools such as simulation software and field test guide; and educational resources for higher education programs. |