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Renewable Energy: What the Building Community Can Do


Town Planners
  • Pay close attention to the layout of building lots to allow for solar orientation and energy-efficient landscaping.

  • Suggest the redesign of new developments and renovations that do not consider the simple principles of renewable energy.

  • Assess how people will get to and from the development, or how effectively job and workplace opportunities are provided within the development.


Building Inspectors

  • Educate builders and planners about the ideas presented in this paper. Your efforts will increase local expectations for energy performance.

  • Enforce energy-efficiency standards.


Developers

  • Develop energy-efficient buildings that take advantage of renewable energy opportunities. Doing so will increase the marketability of your product, help your customers save money, and contribute to a healthier environment.


Real Estate Brokers

  • Promote energy-efficient buildings by educating the buyer and builder about the benefits of saving energy.

  • Highlight desirable energy features when marketing buildings or developments.

  • Emphasize the attractiveness and comfort of buildings that use renewable energy.


Contractors

  • Educate building tradespeople about the advantages of renewable energy technologies and practices.

  • Work with tradespeople who promote environmentally responsible building.

  • Go beyond the energy codes in your community.


Builders

  • Exceed local building codes in terms of insulation, windows, mechanical units, and construction quality.

  • Educate owners, architects, inspectors, and others involved in the building trades.

  • Use durable, healthy building materials that come from local sources.

  • Minimize waste on the construction site.


Architects

  • Become knowledgeable about design practices that incorporate renewable energy and energy efficiency.

  • Educate clients and builders.


Suppliers

  • Provide energy-efficient, healthy materials.

  • Work to create a market for recycled products and renewable energy.

  • Promote interest in energy efficiency with educational displays and special incentives.



 

 

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Page Last Revised: 08/23/05