FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 10, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112

SunBuilt Goes Gold

--First “Gold Level” Builder pledges to install solar technology in new homes--

SAINT CLOUD—The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today unveiled SunBuilt Gold, the latest program to expand solar energy technology in communities throughout Florida. A partnership between DEP, the Florida Home Builders Association and the Florida Solar Energy Research and Education Foundation (FlaSEREF), Sunbuilt Gold provides rebate checks to home builders who install solar hot water heaters in newly constructed homes.

“Adopting clean energy technology protects Florida’s air quality and the health and prosperity of Florida’s citizens and economy,” said DEP Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs and Energy Allan Bedwell. “Through SunBuilt, homes across Florida will use solar technology, highlighting new energy innovations, environmental protection and saving homeowners money.”

SunBuilt Builders are eligible for a $400 rebate for each solar equipped home constructed. The reliable, low-maintenance solar systems use the sun’s energy, instead of electricity, to heat water. A solar collector installed on the roof holds water that is heated by the sun. A traditional water heater serves as a backup supply of hot water on overcast or rainy days. Benefiting both the economy and the environment, the amount of energy generated annually by a single solar water heater is equal to two barrels of oil, lessening the state’s dependence on petroleum imports.

To become a SunBuilt Builder, a builder must be a current member of the Florida Home Builders Association, sign the SunBuilt pledge, use approved solar water heaters and contractors and participate in a home energy efficiency program. Builders who pledge to install solar water heaters on all new homes are classified as Gold Level builders and are eligible to receive a free solar water heater for their model home. America’s Homes President Luis Diaz was certified today as the first Gold Level home builder, pledging to install solar water heaters in 100 percent of new home construction. Silver level builders pledge to offer solar heaters as an option in their new construction.

"For me, conservation means more than the requisite energy saving efforts," said Luis Diaz president of America’s Homes. "It means providing clients with a quality home and a community designed for livability. My choices consider what benefits customers the most economically and environmentally. We've met Energy Star standards in our homes for awhile now. With SunBuilt we've taken it to the next level by including solar water heating in each home. I believe that makes a statement beyond economic savings, beyond upgrading one electric appliance for another - it says I'm concerned, I'm economically smart, and I'm doing my part. What could be better?"

“Solar water heating is the most cost-effective solar energy technology on the market today,” said FlaSEREF Executive Director Colleen Kettles. “By making this commitment, America’s Homes becomes one of just two builders in the nation installing these systems in every home they build.”