Dallas Habitat for Humanity noted for energy efficient homes

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity (DAHFH) and Dallas Sustainable Skylines Initiative (DSSI) for building 40 energy-efficient homes. The organizations found innovative ways to provide quality housing using standardized construction templates while working under a tight budget. DSSI paid for energy efficient upgrades in the homes.

DSSI partners Texas A&M University, Energy Systems Laboratory and TexEnergy Solutions conducted a study to gauge energy savings and cost-effectiveness the efficiency upgrades would provide. The results showed that the families will use 10 to 12 percent less energy for 3 bedroom homes and 21 to 22 percent less energy for 2 bedroom homes when compared to the standard building code in effect at time of construction.

The homes, located in Frazier Courtyard in Dallas, Texas, are part of DSSI’s Affordable Green Homes Initiative that began in 2008. The homes were among the first Habitat For Humanity homes in the country built to LEED Silver standards, the US Green Building Council’s certification for environmentally friendly projects.