The Green Team Energy Efficient Homes Habitat for Humanity of El Paso, Texas, U.S.A. Habitat for Humanity of El Paso has built energy-efficient, passive solar homes since 1994. HFH El Paso became so convinced of the new design's value that the affiliate rewrote its bylaws to require these new criteria. The affiliate reports that El Paso receives more solar energy per square meter than any other city in the United States, making passive solar design especially suitable for local construction. Insulated air gap windows and steel insulated doors. Sealed door and window openings, top plate, wall, Sheetrock, and exterior penetrations.
White shingles reduce heat absorption.
Lower-cost gas appliances. Ceiling fans in all bedrooms, living room and dining area. Florescent light fixtures in areas where extended usage is likely. Plumbing fixtures meet low-flow and water saver requirements. Roof overhang allows winter natural heating and blocks direct summer sunlight.