Homebuyers say energy-efficiency pays for itself

Canadians buying new homes prefer ones with energy efficient features and don't mind paying more if it will reduce their operating costs, according an independent survey.

J.D. Power and Associates, an international market-research firm, surveyed more than 1,800 homeowners in the metropolitan regions of Toronto and Ottawa. All respondents had lived in their new homes for at least three months.

The study found that energy efficiency was an important factor in the purchasing decisions of more than 80 per cent of all respondents; 33 per cent described it as "extremely important."

In addition, 89 per cent of all respondents consider that energy-efficiency should be a basic standard for all new homes.

"This study provides solid evidence that verifies what we've believed all along, that Canadians are keen to realize the benefits of energy-efficient homes," commented Corey McBurney, managing director of EnerQuality, an independent company that runs the ENERGY STAR for New Homes Initiative, the EnerGuide rating system and the R-2000 initiative in Ontario on behalf of Natural Resources Canada. EnerQuality commissioned J.D. Power to conduct the survey.

The study found that 83 per cent of respondents consider the opportunity to save on utility bills as the most important factor in buying an energy-efficient home. Other popular motivators were superior quality (77 per cent) improved comfort (66 per cent) and higher resale value (65 per cent).

"For people in the construction industry and those of us who promote energyefficiency initiatives, the survey provides extremely valuable information," McBurney observed. "Particularly when it comes to labels."

The labels McBurney referred to record the performance of a home's heat and ventilation systems. Once construction is complete, a certified evaluator conducts a blower-door test, a process that identifies air leakages. Based on the test results and a thorough examination of the home, the evaluator rates the house on a scale of 0 (much energy required) to 100 (no purchased energy required). The top-rated homes on the market- usually built to the R- 2000 standards- score at least 80. Thanks to a series of regional initiatives, the supply of homes that score in the mid-to-high 70s is increasing steadily.

The rating system not only enables buyers to have their new homes tested and rated, but also provides training and certification for builders and inspectors.

More information is available at www.newhomes.gc.ca or by calling 1-800-O-Canada.

- News Canada