WINNER

Best Energy Efficiency Program

Judging Criteria: variety of energy efficiency features, average cost savings, community involvement

Focus on Energy; Statewide

PROGRAM OVERVIEW: More than 20 years ago, our offering was created with the purpose of helping builders construct homes that are more energy-efficient, comfortable, durable, and safer than homes that are merely built to code. Over this time, we have trained more than 1,300 builders, 115 building science professionals and more than 21,000 contractors. Participating builders work with accredited building science professionals associated with our program to implement energy efficiency features and smart building practices. For example, air tightness is arguably the most influential component of a home’s energy efficiency and comfort. And based on our influence, homes built in Wisconsin are some of the most air-tight, energy-efficient homes in the country. Utilizing spray foam in box sills, which is now commonplace throughout Wisconsin, was initiated by our training back in 2013.

In 2019 and 2020, we paid 246 individual builders $2,643,850.00 for building 4,646 certified energy efficient homes saving 32,684 Mega Watt Hours of energy, the equivalent of 1,019,138 gallons of gas consumed. These homes represent nearly 30% of all homes built in Wisconsin. The thing participating builders like most about partnering with us is the value that the partnership brings to their business. Most importantly, reduced customer callbacks and the ability to differentiate themselves in the marketplace.

Questions? Contact WBA Director of Operations Joan Olson, or WBA Director of Communications Alicia Naleid.