How the Builders Challenge Helps Builders
| Top Reasons Builders Are Not Already Doing This | How the Builders Challenge Helps |
|---|---|
| 1. Market Demand People would still rather have granite counter tops. |
In NAHB Research Center's market research (12/07), 22 percent of consumers said if they had an extra $5,000 they would purchase upgraded countertops, but 26 percent said they would spend it on energy efficiency improvements. The Builders Challenge will drive demand through education around the EnergySmart Home Scale, which helps consumers understand energy use and benefits. |
| 2. Cost - Don't believe cost-neutral - Economies of scale - Learning curve |
The Builders Challenge will link builders to proven cost-effective strategies, prescriptive option packages, and training. Case studies with real numbers combined with consumer education will provide convincing evidence to builders and homebuyers alike. |
| 3. Proof/Guarantees: - Want data on products/processes - Want to limit liability |
The Builders Challenge will provide case studies and work with manufacturers to provide necessary product and system information. All of the systems and approaches needed to meet the Challenge are field tested and in the marketplace. |
| 4. Unaware of resources Awareness of Energy Star, HERS Index and Building America is minimal. |
Volumes of good information exist, but both builders and consumers are unaware of it. The Builders Challenge will market the availability of resources through the Internet as well as industry and consumer media. |
| 5. Just don't buy it Some still think it is a fad. |
The 2007 Green Building Survey produced by Reed Business Information reported that when builders were asked to agree or disagree with the statement "green building is a fad" - 67 percent of respondents said they disagreed, 40 percent that they strongly disagreed, 10 percent were neutral, 19 percent agreed, and only 3 percent strongly agreed. Clearly, this audience believes green building is a growing interest that won't fade. And beyond opinions, real evidence of a national drive for greater energy efficiency across all sectors can be seen in federal legislation (new fuel economy standards for cars), state initiatives (renewable portfolio standards), and an increasing consumer appetite for efficient products (hybrid vehicles). |