Jun 22 2010
Black Hills Energy has received a 2010 ENERGY STAR® Leadership in Housing Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This award recognizes the contribution Black Hills Energy has made to energy-efficient construction by verifying and incenting the construction of 270 ENERGY STAR qualified homes last year throughout its Iowa service territory. According to ENERGY STAR, these homes will save Black Hills Energy customers approximately $84,000 on utility bills each year.
"Black Hills Energy is honored to receive the ENERGY STAR award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the second consecutive year," said Linn Evans, president and chief operating officer - utilities. "We are committed to helping customers be more energy efficient without sacrificing comfort in their homes and offices. By doing simple things like adjusting thermostats when away, customers can reduce energy waste that can lead to potential savings on their monthly bill."
To earn the ENERGY STAR qualification, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the EPA. These homes are at least 15 percent more efficient than homes built to local code, and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20 percent to 30 percent more efficient than standard homes.
"EPA is privileged to work with a diverse group of utilities, state programs, and home builder associations who effectively support ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes," said Sam Rashkin, National Director of ENERGY STAR for Homes. "Thanks to the leadership of these sponsors, home buyers across the country have greater access to ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes that cost less to own while improving comfort, indoor air quality, durability, and our environment."
ENERGY STAR qualified homes offer homebuyers all the features they want in a new home, plus energy-saving features such as effective insulation systems, high performance windows, tight construction and ducts, properly-sized and installed efficient heating and cooling equipment, efficient products, and third-party verification of energy performance.
Source: http://www.blackhillscorp.com/