Energy Star receives official recognition from local, state government officials

July has been officially declared Energy Star month throughout Southern Nevada.

Proclamations were issued earlier this month by Gov. Kenny Guinn, Clark County Commission Chairman Chip Maxfield, and mayors Oscar Goodman of Las Vegas, James Gibson of Henderson, Michael Montandon of North Las Vegas and Robert Ferraro of Boulder City.

Kathy Hilty, marketing director for Pardee Homes, a founding member of Nevada Energy Star Partners, said the voluntary coalition has successfully promoted energy conservation within the home-building industry in Southern Nevada for the past four years.

"With the support of our member partners and the community, there has been a significant increase in consumer awareness of Energy Star, and the number of Energy Star homes built within the Las Vegas Valley has grown considerably. We greatly appreciate the support at the state and local levels and encourage everyone to do their part to conserve our valley's resources," she said.

Energy Star homes, which feature high-performance windows, tighter construction, upgraded insulation and energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment, are built to use 30 percent less energy for heating and cooling than federal standards require.

"Environmental consciousness is growing and consumers are obviously interested in lowering their utility bills," said Christy Stratton, marketing director for Pulte and Del Webb. "We believe that Energy Star is the way of the future."

The Energy Star program extends to all products that promote energy conservation and preservation of the environment, including appliances, electronics, lighting, windows, office products, homes and mortgages.

The local coalition includes home builders, developers, retailers, finance companies, energy consultants and utility companies.

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