The Building Technologies Office (BTO) collaborates with the residential building industry to improve the energy efficiency of both new and existing homes. By developing, demonstrating, and deploying cost-effective solutions, BTO strives to reduce energy consumption across the residential building sector by at least 50%.
Research and Development
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Conduct research that focuses on engineering solutions to design, test, and build or upgrade homes through Building America.
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Produce Climate-Specific Handbooks for residential builders to illustrate industry best practices.
Market Stimulation
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Use a whole building approach for home upgrades through ENERGY STAR®.
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Support energy efficiency upgrade markets by providing grants to states, local governments, and organizations in communities through the Better Buildings Neighborhood Program.
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Provide resources that promote high-quality work and ensure a qualified workforce with our Guidelines for Home Energy Professionals.
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Evaluate home energy performance through Home Energy Score.
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Encourage college students to develop innovative home designs through the U.S Department of Energy Solar Decathlon.
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Promote the use of energy efficient technologies and methods by builders through the DOE Challenge Home program.
Building Codes and Equipment Standards
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Provide a wide range of information, tools, and training resources to support the adoption and use of residential building energy codes.
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Develop test procedures and minimum appliance and equipment efficiency standards for homes.