U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Building Technologies Office – Better Buildings Neighborhood Program

Better Buildings Neighborhood Program logo.

The Better Buildings Neighborhood Program is helping over 40 competitively selected state and local governments develop sustainable programs to upgrade the energy efficiency of more than 100,000 buildings. These leading communities are using innovation and investment in energy efficiency to expand the building improvement industry, test program delivery business models, and create jobs.

New Materials and Resources

May 2013

Get Inspired!

Hear why Better Buildings partners are excited to bring the benefits of energy upgrades to their neighborhoods.
Watch the 5-minute video.

Innovations

Program partners are testing innovative ways of delivering energy efficiency upgrades to their neighborhoods.
Learn more.

Better Buildings in Your Neighborhood

map of united states with blue shading, and orange pinpoints scattered throughout the shaded states

Promising Approaches

To help homeowners cross the finish line with upgrades, some Better Buildings Neighborhood Program partners provide energy advisors to coach them through the process.

The Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance's energy advisor calls participating homeowners to encourage them throughout their upgrade, from requesting an assessment to hiring a contractor.

The Connecticut Neighbor to Neighbor Energy Challenge's network of volunteers helps homeowners graduate from simple lighting improvements to complex projects such as integrated energy efficiency and solar installations.

The Energy Coach for the Small Town Energy Program for University Park, Maryland, walks homeowners through their energy assessment, contractor selection, and financial incentive options, answering any questions along the way.

Why Energy Efficiency Upgrades

A home energy upgrade can save money, improve comfort, and create a healthier indoor environment. Learn how.