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Since 1950, Tropicana Homes has been committed to providing El Pasoans with homes that complement their lifestyles through quality, comfort-focused design and exceptional value. Over the years, countless memories have been made at thousands of Tropicana Homes, and continue to be made as each new generation begins creating their own.

Keeping these new generations in mind, Tropicana Homes takes pride in continuing to provide quality, comfort and value to our customers as we work to provide solutions to the demand for cleaner and more sustainable energy within our homes and communities. Energy efficiency is the focus of several ongoing federal initiatives, as well as state and local energy code mandates including efficiency requirements for new residential construction.

Any new home that was not permitted before September 1, 2016, must be built to the stringent standards of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). These initiatives and mandates will positively impact the environment, but also result in increased construction costs.

Fortunately, homeowners have the opportunity to educate themselves on the new efficiency measures, learn how to properly maintain the related systems and exercise responsible energy use, which could lead to lower energy costs over the life of their home. The following list highlights the potential benefits of energy efficiency:

• Increased comfortability and better quality atmosphere throughout the home. Minimum standards help ensure the efficiency of materials used and how they are installed. Examples of this include properly installed ductwork, improved insulation, LED lighting, higher efficiency windows and ventilation fans. When maintained properly, these measures will create a more air tight living space within the home, thereby reducing energy costs.

• Potential long-term cost savings for homeowners. With appropriate maintenance and consumer use, there is a potential savings for residents through the reduction of electrical, water and gas utility usage. One expert believes, “Homeowners could save themselves roughly $300 annually on their utility bills compared to the 2012 EICC, and $850 annually compared to homes built to the 2006 IECC.” Visit http://www.builderonline.com/building/code for additional information on this topic. (Meres, Ryan. “2015 IECC: What you Need to Know” Builder Online, 18 Nov. 2013. Web. 8 Aug. 2016)

• Overall benefit to the environment. Investing in efficiency measures will lead to a decrease in pollution and wasted energy and natural gas. This benefits not only current generations but also future generations.

Although there is an initial increase in price, the potential savings could negate the initial cost of implementation. As energy prices rise and resources diminish, new homeowners will continue to reap the benefits of a more energy efficient home, including competitive resale values compared to older, less efficient homes. As always, Tropicana Homes is committed to quality homes and the proper installation of mandated systems and features. We’re here to answer any questions regarding energy efficiency or any other topic related to purchasing your new home. For additional information on energy efficiency tips and tools, please visit the State Energy Conservation Office’s website at www.seco.cpa.state.tx.us.