For Immediate Release

NEWS RELEASE
July 27, 2011

FGBC Certifications Set New Record
Home Certifications Soar

The Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC), a membership-based non-profit organization that promotes sustainable building, development and business practices, announced that "Florida Green" home certifications for 2011 hit 750 for the year yesterday, setting a new annual all-time high. The previous annual record was 749 set in 2007. This brings the total number of FGBC home certifications to 3,651 since the program began in 2002, making it the leading certification program in the state.

FGBC Executive Director, Suzanne Cook, stated: "Reaching this achievement so early in the year indicates that green certifications are proving their value to both builders and consumers. The reduced costs of home operation (energy and water efficiencies), plus the durability and health benefits are driving forces for home sales."

FGBC Certifying Agent Randy Conn, on behalf of Premier Construction in Tallahassee, submitted the home application that took FGBC certifications to a new high. The home submitted was a 2,005 square foot contract home in Southwood that achieved the FGBC gold-level certification with a score of 168. The home was Energy Star qualified with a HERS Index of 68. Other features of the home included:
♦ High efficiency water saving features and controller integrated into irrigation system
♦ Water saving faucets, shower heads, and tankless water heater
♦ Greenguard carpets, recycled cellulose insulation, low VOC interior paints, and field finished wood floors