Energy Efficiency Benefits
The Benefits of an Energy Efficient Building
Energy-efficient building is a smart choice which benefits mind, body, and wallet. Lower monthly bills quickly re-coup your initial investment, and, of course, the advantages of healthier living and peace of mind are beyond measure. Energy-efficient building means:
Lower Energy Bills
Most Energywise customers realize a monthly savings of 30 - 50%. This can quickly add up to hundreds, or even thousands, saved each year which can be re-invested in your family or your future.
Healthy Indoor Air
Healthy indoor air can have a huge impact on your health. People exposed to pollutants in indoor air often suffer from irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Engerywise customers can breathe easy knowing their air is clean and healthy.
Sound Insolation
Unwanted noise can invade your living or working space, hindering your comfort and enjoyment. Internal sounds, such as a loud stereo or running faucet, can also cause irritation. Engerywise buildings are specifically constructed to minimize unwanted noise and provide the greatest peace of mind possible.
Mortgage Advantage
Fanny Mae offers some mortgage advantages for energy-efficient buildings. Monthly savings resulting from energy efficiency can be used to qualify borrowers for a larger mortgage.
Texas Signs ICF Insurance Discount Bill Into Law
Texas Governor Rick Perry signed an insurance discount bill for ICF (Insulating Concrete Form) home construction on May 20th, 2003. Senate Bill #581 provides optional insurance discounts to owners of homes constructed with an insulating concrete form system. The law requires the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) to establish the amount of the discount, but insurers may deviate from the amount with TDI approval.
Cement Promotion Council (CCPC) residential manager Adrian King has worked with the Texas Department of Insurance for several years in an attempt to gain recognition for insulating concrete form construction as a superior way to build homes. The purpose: to encourage and assist the TDI to incorporate a reduction in the cost of insurance for ICF concrete homeowners. Recently, CCPC provided the definition for ICF construction that was incorporated into insurance bills written and presented by Representative Kenny Marchant, District 115, Carrolton, and State Senator Mike Jackson, District 11, Pasadena, to the 78th legislative session of the Texas State Legislature. The final bill was subsequently signed by Governor Perry on May 20th, 2003.
The bill allows insurers the option to offer the TDI Homeowners Discount for homes constructed with an insulating concrete form system. The Texas Department of Insurance is required to establish the discount, and is currently working to determine the exact amount. The CCPC and the Portland Cement Association cooperated to direct and fund the successful lobbying effort. Implementation is scheduled for January 1, 2004.
