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With everyone jumping onto the green bandwagon, it’s difficult for consumers to determine which products truly benefit the environment. Build San Antonio Green, a program that certifies newly built homes that use environmental principles, helps take the guesswork out of a homebuyer’s shopping decision. And, in just two years, they have certified almost 247 new homes, boasting energy savings of 1.51 gigawatt-hours a year, which reduces nitrogen oxides by 2,492 pounds—the equivalent of taking 125 light-duty vehicles off the road for a year.

Build San Antonio Green is a collaboration among local government, utilities, and the Greater San Antonio Builders Association. Build San Antonio Green uses a quality-review process to certify that homes are “built green.” Participating builders receive ongoing training in green-building techniques and are required to attend continuing education classes

Homebuilders receive certification through a tiered program: Level 1, adopted in 2007, includes a builder checklist of allowed paints, carpets, and adhesives. It also mandates that certified homes offer at least 15 percent more energy efficiency than required by city code. In 2008, Level 2 raised performance standards, requiring homes offer 30 percent more energy efficiency than code and to include “solar-ready” systems should homeowners want to add solar panels. Level 3 standards are in development and will recognize homes that meet “net zero” energy, meaning they produce as much energy as they consume.

Build San Antonio Green’s next step is to launch a renovation/remodeling program that will help expand the program beyond new construction. Build San Antonio Green also publishes brochures and holds workshops to help spread the word about its effort that’s guiding growth with green principles in mind.