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Real estate plays a crucial role in helping the U.S. achieve its climate goals, as stated by federal officials. Buildings, both residential and commercial, contribute to 31% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions, making them a significant focus for reducing emissions. To address this issue, the Biden administration has implemented various policies to decrease residential emissions.

One homeowner who has embraced this initiative is Morgan Wojciechowski, whose newly built residence in Williamsburg, Virginia, has been designated as “zero emissions” by a third-party firm. The energy-efficient home is entirely electric and part of a green energy program with the power provider Dominion, resulting in clean and sustainable energy usage.

Wojciechowski’s home, spanning 5,400 square feet, serves as a model for sustainable construction. While her personal project cost around $1.1 million, more affordable and replicable options are available, such as the homes built by Healthy Communities at Walnut Farm, which are smaller and priced at $433,000.

The energy-efficient features of Wojciechowski’s home, combined with solar panels, are projected to save $7,226 annually compared to an average U.S. home. By generating solar energy and offsetting utility bills through net metering, homeowners can significantly reduce their energy costs.

To make solar investments financially viable, Wojciechowski emphasizes the importance of energy-efficient upgrades, such as replacing windows, adding insulation, and optimizing mechanical systems. By starting with simple upgrades like windows and doors, homeowners can gradually transition to more impactful improvements like insulation and conditioning crawl spaces for better energy efficiency.

For renters, energy conservation strategies like turning off lights can still make a difference in reducing carbon emissions. While it may be challenging to make significant changes in a rental property, being mindful of energy consumption and advocating for efficient practices can help contribute to a more sustainable living environment.

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