The Rise of Green Construction: A $114 Billion Market by 2016 Posted on July 20, 2015June 23, 2021 by Amanda Wolf Contractors and homebuilders must be prepared: Buyers are increasingly interested in environmentally friendly homes. The popularity of “green homes” is growing across the U.S., which presents not only an opportunity for more Americans to reduce their individual emission footprints, but also for builders to expand their businesses into new and exciting niche markets. What is a Green Home? There isn’t one specific definition of an environmentally friendly house, but there are many design and construction methods and materials that can be used to build net-zero homes – those that create as much renewable energy as they consume every year – or net-zero-ready homes – which are environmentally friendly and created to have renewable energy sources added to them at a later date. While not every green home will be net zero – though that’s the ultimate goal – most use design techniques that reduce energy dependence, such as natural lighting and insulation, and include methods of generating renewable energy on site. Additionally, recycled materials are those that were sustainably produced and are a must for these residences. Programs and Consultants It’s clear these types of homes are less of a passing fad and more of a long-term industry change as there are now eight major certification programs in the U.S. along with numerous local programs, according to Electrical Contractor Magazine. In addition to specific certifications that allow homeowners to demonstrate the energy efficiency of their houses, there are many consultants popping up around the country to help contractors and homeowners meet their green goals. Some important green home programs are the U.S Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star home program, the U.S. Department of Energy Builders Challenge and the National Association of Home Builders’ National Green Building Standard. An Expanding Industry While some builders may remain skeptical and see this as a fad, others believe green homes have the potential to be a large and important part of the housing market. McGraw-Hill Construction stated up to 38 percent of the residential market will consist of green homes by 2016. What was once a relatively small $17 billion market in 2011 will develop into a $114 billion industry by 2016, EC Magazine reported. How to Get Involved Local builders should see the significant business opportunity in their regions and be part of the growth that’s already taking place. Getting involved in a particular certification program or with a local consultancy agency can help contractors and other building professionals build their expertise and learn about the unique challenges associated with building green homes. Professionals interested in moving into this niche can find training partners and green designers through the DOE.
