When it comes to “Acts of Green” we consider building a Green Path home one of the biggest. All new homes in Minnesota are constructed to some of the strictest energy standards in the nation, but a certified Green Path home takes it a step further.
“MN Green Path is taking the industry a step higher. It’s giving the public an opportunity to see the great things we can do!”–Carole Griffith, Homes by Tradition
Every Green Path Home is certified through a third party test that results in a home efficiency rating called a HERS Index. Your typical existing home has a HERS Index of about 130, while a typical Green Path home has an index of about 61.
When we started the program in 2011 only 11 percent of the homes in the Parade of Homes tour were Green Path certified, today they make up 57 percent. While it’s impossible to measure the numerous ways theses homes have impacted on our environment, we know as an industry we’ve made a profound difference.
Green Path By the numbers…
– Over 3,000 homes tested statewide to date.
– About 60 homes tested per week.
– Lowest Green Path HERS Index of a home so far was 19.
– Average HERS Index is around 61.
– The first fully Green Path certified community features 36 homes.
– Our first Green Path Energy Tour in the Parade of Homes featured 11 homes.
– Our last Green Path Energy Tour in the Parade of Homes featured 240 homes.
Green Path Homes Go Beyond Energy Efficiency!
Photo of Bob Michels Construction Green Path Home featured in 2014 Fall Remodelers Showcase
Many of our Green Path Homes go far beyond having good insulation, high quality windows, and energy efficient appliances. Builders have also gotten creative using locally sourced materials that have traveled less miles and reclaimed wood and products made from recycled materials, all of which cut down on the homes impact on the environment.
Take a Step Inside a Green Path Home.
Join us on Minnesota’s Green Path!
Visit mngreenpath.org or contact Mary Schweich at 651-697-7572 to get started.
Thank you to our MN Green Path Sponsors
