The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced that more than 10,000 homes have been constructed to meet the energy efficiency specifications of the voluntary Builders Challenge initiative. Undertaken in partnership with some of the nation's largest production builders, these highly efficient homes represent an important advancement for the U.S. homebuilding industry, integrating construction with a whole-house energy-saving approach. These homes are equipped with highly efficient walls and windows, and heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. They also feature Energy Star certified lighting products and appliances.

Homes built under this initiative have generated an estimated energy cost savings of nearly $15 million and slashed 71,000 tons of carbon emissions since 2008. DOE's Builders Challenge recognizes companies for their leadership in providing increased value and quality to home buyers throughout the nation with high performance homes.

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