http://www.vpr.net/audio/programs/84/2013/02/VTED_0206_2013.mp3
There are at least four homes in Vermont that stay warm all through the winter without burningany wood, or spending a dollar on heating oil. These are certified passive houses.Using the energy of the sun and ultra-efficient building techniques and materials, it's possible to build a home today that uses very little energy.
We'll learn about these innovations in energy efficient construction with Peter Schneider of Efficiency Vermont, Jacob Racusin of New Frameworks Natural Building, and Craig Peltier of Vermont Housing and Conservation Board.
Post your questions or comments about energy efficient design or email them to vermontedition@vpr.net.
Also in the program, Vermont has been taxing energy bills for over a decade to pay for a statewide energy efficiency program. That money mostly goes to large-scale improvements, but what about homeowners who want to get better insulation, or double-pane windows? We'll find out about energy efficient retrofitting: what's possible now, and what programs have been proposed for the future.
