Whether you’re concerned about limiting your carbon footprint, or just want to reduce your energy bills, you may be interested in building a more energy efficient home. If so, you’re not alone. In 2010, green homes are expected to represent 10 percent of new home construction, compared to just 2 percent in 2005, according to the 2006 McGraw-Hill Construction Residential Green Building SmartMarket Report.

Fortunately, maximizing energy savings in your new house, from taking advantage of solar heating techniques to installing appliances that use less power, is easier than ever. And, in addition to the environmental benefits, green building techniques can save you thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your home.

Building Green Homes

Though awareness of environmental issues in home building is growing, it’s still important to select both an architect and builder who have a good understanding of green home construction techniques. Individuals with experience in green building will understand your needs and know the best techniques and materials to use when building your home.

While building a green home may involve more upfront costs, the energy savings over the life of the home can more than make up the difference. In addition, you may be entitled to certain tax breaks for building an energy efficient house.

Features of Energy Efficient Houses

According to ENERGY STAR, features of energy efficient homes include:

• Effective insulation
• Energy efficient appliances, light bulbs, fixtures and other products
• Energy efficient heating and cooling systems
• Energy efficient windows to keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer
• Well-sealed construction and ducts.

To make your new house more energy efficient, consider choosing some (or all) of the following options:

• Build a smaller home. The smaller your home’s square footage, the less it will cost to heat and cool.
• Choose energy efficient appliances, including washers, dryers and dishwashers.
• Install a radiant floor heating system.
• Install solar panels to create an active solar home, which takes advantage of energy from the sun to provide electricity.
• Use a solar water heating system.
• Use passive solar design techniques by carefully placing windows and overhangs so that you can reduce your heating and cooling needs.

Benefits of a Green Home

Some of the benefits of building an energy efficient, green home include:

• Discounted insurance or mortgage rates; possible tax breaks.
• Healthier indoor environment from natural ventilation, radiant heating systems and natural products.
• Increased comfort and reduced noise.
• Increased home value.
• Less maintenance. Energy efficient homes may require fewer repairs than homes built using traditional building techniques.
• Reduced heating and cooling bills.
• Reduced water bills.