The GreenPoint Rating: a kinder, gentler building standard

LEED for Homes is not the only green building rating program.  This is a good thing, since LEED is targeting builders that are at the upper end of the sustainably scale.  What about builders who are motivated to build greener houses, but are new to the discipline? 

LEED for Homes is generally not the best program for builders embarking upon this journey.  In California, another very good program is available entitled GreenPoint Rated.  GreenPoint Rated was developed by Build-It-Green, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting green building in the state. Build-It-Green and our company, Davis Energy Group, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding that coordinates the GreenPoint Rated and LEED for Homes programs in California.

GreenPoint Rated provides a credible, yet accessible point of entry for builders embarking on green building.  As builders become more experienced in this arena and want to build yet greener housing units, they can achieve dual branding of their houses according to both the LEED for Homes and GreenPoint Rated systems.  Build-It-Green and Davis Energy Group are now working on developing the tools needed to easily accomplish this with one set of inspections and tests.  For after all, the ultimate goal isn’t certifications, tests and paperwork, it’s healthier, more sustainable housing units that benefit society and residents for years to come.