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New Homes in Oak Ridge Will be Zero Energy
Scientists will study four homes outfitted with cutting-edge appliances and other energy-saving features that will be built in the heart of Oak Ridge, TN. More than 100 persons recently gathered to observe the launch of the Zero Energy Building Research Alliance, or ZEBRAlliance. The homes will have ground-source integrated heat pumps, solar panels, the latest experimental appliances and sensors to shut them off when not in use. Other sensors will put some non-needed appliances on hold while others are in use and turn off televisions when occupants leave the room. Continue...  View Topic

AIA Report Affirms Strong Demand for Green Home Design Features
As the housing market continues to struggle and energy costs remain near record highs, homeowners are looking to energy management systems and other sustainable design elements to help reduce the financial burden of high utility bills. Billings at architecture firms and inquiries for new projects are both at extremely low levels with no signs of an imminent turnaround. These findings are from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey for the second quarter of 2008 that focused on emerging home features: systems, technologies and function rooms in the home. “There is strong demand for green home design features and products like solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling, and water reclamation systems,” said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “As there is more focus on making homes more energy-efficient, there is less emphasis on investing in special function rooms such as home offices and game rooms.” Continue...  View Topic

Manufacturers Continue to Improve Energy Performance of Fenestration Products
Energy lost through windows accounts for 15 percent of the energy consumed by the nation’s residential and commercial buildings, according to the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Building Technology Program. As a result, energy efficient fenestration products – doors, windows, skylights, and curtain walls – are a top priority for the public and private sectors. “Using high performance fenestration in new construction or renovated buildings can help homeowners, businesses, and others save money on utility bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says NFRC Executive Director Jim Benney. Continue...  View Topic

ICF Forum
Thinking of buying ICF home. What should I check out?
ICF Costs and best design for crawlspace
A caution about unvented crawl spaces

SIP Forum
SIP/ICF junction
2nd floor loading levels
Order of Operations Rigid foam than Tyvek?

Radiant Heating Forum
Radiant Heat + Hardwood over concrete slab
Would a second floor slab work w/ thermosiphon?
Cork Flooring

Geothermal Heat Pump Forum
Home energy audits
Install Mistakes 
Got my geothermal price quote

Solar and Wind
Record 31.77 cents per kWh charged in NYC!
SOLAR POWER WITH ELECTRIC BOILER VS. GEOTHERMAL? 
Off-grid PV system for 1600 sq. ft. SIPS home

Windows/Doors and Interior/Exterior Finish
Hurricane windows
Marvin Windows and Doors
Old-fashioned wood storm door project?

Appliances, Lighting and Kitchen/Bath Fixtures
Green countertops
Ductless Mini Split Wall Units
Green security lighting

General Forum
Is this okay...?
Where should vapor barrier be placed with hi mass- sand bed
Help, footings don't line up