The U.S. Green Building Council launched the LEED certification program for homes in 2008, after a successful decade of commercial implementation. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, recognizes four levels of certification for incorporating green principles into the construction of homes without driving up price: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Each category consists of prerequisites (required elements) and optional credits. It is an internationally recognized system, constantly evolving to incorporate new processes and materials and encourage adoption globally.
Homes can earn points in an 8-category rating system:
- Innovation and Design Process
- Location and Linkages
- Sustainable Sites
- Water Efficiency
- Energy and Atmosphere
- Materials and Resources
- Indoor Environmental Quality
- Awareness and Education
For a few hundred dollars, new construction and renovated homes can apply for a LEED certification at the
USGBC website. LEED homes can see energy use reductions of 30-60%, depending on the certification. This translates to savings for owners and increased resale value, as younger generations of homebuyers often site improved energy efficiency as an important factor in their purchasing choices.
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