Homes go all green

The first development in Southern California to go completely "green" is being developed by a prominent leader of the Southland Regional Association of Realtors.

Realtor Jennie Stabile and her son Al are developing 41 energy-efficient, solar powered, green homes in Lancaster. It will be the first community in Southern California to participate in the California Energy Commission's new solar homes partnership.

“I hope this will start a trend among builders statewide,” Stabile said. “And, some day, I hope all homes are green, energy-efficient homes.”

The solar electric power offers owners a chance to shave up to 50 percent off monthly electric bills. No longer are solar panels an eyesore. Instead, the solar panels are beautifully integrated into roofing tiles. Owners also will benefit from a $2,000 federal tax credit.

The green aspects of the development include: water-efficient landscape designed for the California High Desert; weather-based irrigation controls; engineered wood products; low-VOC paints; and recycling of construction waste materials.

The homes also will have an improved building envelope with R-21 rated insulation in the walls and R-49-rated insulation in the attic, along with air ducts that are buried in the attic insulation.

The homes will have an high efficiency gas furnace and central air condition systems, special air filters, high-performance, triple-pane windows, fluorescent lighting, attic radiant heat barrier, and tankless water heaters. The homes will be tested to ensure that they are air tight and that the ducts distribute  air efficiently.

A grand opening celebration is set for Sept. 27 featuring three open model homes that highlight the solar-powered, energy-efficient and green benefits.  For more information, write via e-mail to obelsole@geltzcomm.com or call toll-free 866-433-2728.