The improved comfort, superior air quality, and low energy bills aren't achieved by accident. An energy-efficient home costs the same or less to own as a conventional house when monthly payments for taxes , principal , interest , and energy are added together. Canada is a world leader in energy efficient housing. Canada's R-2000 program, for example, has been licensed to Japan and copied in many parts of the United States. Canadians know how to build affordable, comfortable, low energy homes, but we still don't build as many as we should.
Energy efficiency starts at the planning stage.
Walls, windows and other basic building components last a long time. It is expensive to upgrade these energy features later on. The decisions you make now will determine your home's performance for decades. Smart home buyers put their money into the building's structure and durable products with long, useful lives. Windows may not be replaced for twenty years, but lighting, bathroom fixtures, or flooring can be upgraded easily at a later date.