Source: Portland Cement Association

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently reached a milestone for the Energy Star program by passing the 1 millionth Energy Star-qualified home mark. This year alone, families living in Energy Star-qualified homes will save more than $270 million on tutility bills, while avoiding greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from about 370,000 vehicles.

To earn the Energy Star label, a home must meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by EPA. Guidelines include effective insulation systems, high-performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and high-efficiency lighting and appliances. In addition, an independent home energy rater conducts onsite testing and inspections to verify that the home’s performance meets Energy Star requirements.