Builders resist stricter energy codes for new homes

In a clash over climate and affordability, home builders are lobbying against stricter energy efficiency standards for new houses, citing cost concerns.

Anna Phillips reports for The Washington Post.

In short:

• Home builders in various states, including North Carolina and Michigan, are opposing new energy efficiency building codes, arguing they increase housing costs.
• The industry claims these codes add significantly to construction costs, though federal studies suggest a much lower impact.
• Climate advocates and some builders counter that energy-efficient homes offer long-term savings and environmental benefits.

Key quote:

"The notion that building this way is too expensive or too complicated … I just don’t buy any of that."

— Rob Howard, green builder

Why this matters:

This resistance to energy-efficient building practices is significant as it hinders progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from homes, which account for a significant portion of U.S. emissions. The debate underscores the challenge of balancing economic interests with urgent environmental needs.

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