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In the wake of the country’s fast-depleting natural resources and increasing pollution levels, US President Barrack Obama has rolled out numerous policies to maximise energy-efficiency and minimise wastage. Recently, he announced a $6 billion “HOMESTAR Program” to retrofit into American homes for a more energy-efficient approach to living.
Home Star is expected to save hundreds of dollars a year on the electricity spends of middle-class families in U.S. The highlights of the program are $1,000 - $1,500 Silver Star Rebates and $3000 Gold Star Rebates. Moreover, these rebates are for the direct benefit of consumers.
Home Star will reimburse homeowners for residential energy upgrades such as air sealing, insulation, new light bulbs and new appliances. They would be eligible to receive up to $2,000 for implementing at least two upgrades from a list of qualifying measures, or up to $3,500 for at least four qualifying measures. Higher incentives would be available to homeowners who achieve energy savings of at least 20 percent.
Weatherization projects that reduce energy consumption by 20 percent would be eligible to receive up to $4,000 in incentive money, plus $1,500 for every additional 5 percent reduction in energy consumption. The Times also notes that all Home Star incentives would be capped at 50 percent of project costs, and a percentage of projects would be audited to ensure that the improvements perform as expected. The plan is projected to cost $23 billion over two years.
Guardian Industries - one of the largest manufacturers of fibreglass insulation and energy-saving glass products supports Obama’s Home Star program. The R&D department - Science and Technology Centre of Guardian Industries encourages an energy-efficient approach through the use of its high performance, green products.
“The U.S. can significantly reduce its energy use by promoting home retrofits that rely upon proven techniques and materials,” said Russell Ebeid, chairman of the board.
“We support Home Star because it will save energy and lower homeowners' energy bills.”
Residential energy efficiency improvements covered by the Home Star program can reduce energy waste in most homes by 20 to 40 percent, and when combined with low-interest financing, can be cash flow positive. A nationwide initiative to improve the efficiency of America’s 128 million homes would result in significant reductions in building-related greenhouse gas emissions and generate long-term energy savings for American consumers.
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