IMT celebrates the decision by HUD and USDA to update their minimum energy efficiency standards for new homes to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code and ASHRAE 90.1-2019. As demonstrated by their analysis, updating to these standards will deliver significant savings: on average, a purchaser of a new single-family home will recoup any additional upfront costs in just 1.5 years and will continue to see utility bill savings of nearly $400 annually. Purchasers of units in multifamily homes fare even better, with payback periods of less than two months.
As discussed in this blog from last May, this decision will have long-term positive effects for residents. Homeowners will benefit from lower utility bills, better indoor air quality, and greater comfort and safety during extreme weather events. Additionally, according to USDA, these standards are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 6.35 million metric tons over the next 30 years—the equivalent of taking 46,000 cars off the road every year.
IMT salutes this common sense measure to fight climate change, reduce mortgage default risk, and benefit homeowners.
About IMT
The Institute for Market Transformation (IMT) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that envisions a world where buildings dramatically lower greenhouse gas emissions and support our physical, social, and economic well-being. We advance this vision through policies, programs, and business practices that scale better buildings in the United States. For 25 years, IMT has provided actionable resources, market analysis, and hands-on technical assistance to transform how building performance is defined, valued, and acted upon. Within this work, IMT seeks to center community voices and connect people working in real estate, government and community organizations. Together, we are catalyzing lasting change in how buildings serve people and communities. To learn more, visit imt.org.