NRV Blueprint March 2025

Home Orientation The way your home is oriented on the lot can have a huge impact on its energy efficiency. Ideally, homes should face south (in the Northern Hemisphere) to take advantage of natural sunlight, which helps with passive heating in the winter. By considering the home’s placement and window design, you can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. Designing your home to be southern facing also makes it easier to incorporate rooftop solar in the future.

Roof Type Not all roofs are created equal when it comes to energy efficiency. Light-colored or “cool” roofs, for example, reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofs, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer. For new builds, choosing a roof that enhances your home’s energy performance can make a noticeable difference in energy costs. Insulation Proper insulation is essential to keep your home comfortable year-round. It helps maintain a steady temperature inside, reducing the need for excess heating and cooling. Be sure to insulate your attic, walls, floors, and even your windows. The more insulation you have, the less energy you’ll need to regulate your home’s temperature. Electrification

Switching from gas-powered appliances (such as gas stoves, water heaters, and furnaces) to electric alternatives is commonly referred to as “electrification” and is becoming increasingly popular. Electric options generally release less carbon into the atmosphere, and can be powered by renewable energy sources like solar, making them a cleaner and more sustainable choice for homeowners. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), heat pumps can reduce electricity use by about 65% compared to resistance heating like baseboard heaters. There are also numerous federal tax credits and rebates available for energy-efficiency and electrification projects. For example, homeowners can take a 30% tax credit (up to $2,000) for installing a new heat pump. To explore which credits and rebates your family is eligible for visit homes.rewiringamerica. org/calculator.*

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