Eco Block as an energy efficient substitute

Gainesville Regional Utilities in Florida paid the owners of an ECO-Block energy-efficient home for helping cut greenhouse gas emissions, which could provide a preview of future efforts to address global warming.

The home in the Madera subdivision includes energy-saving features such as highly insulated ECO-Block walls, heat-blocking windows and ultra-efficient appliances. Energy experts studying the home found it used about 50% less energy in 2007 as a home constructed to meet the minimum building code of the area. Univ. of Florida researcher Nicholas Taylor researcher studied other area homes built around the same time and determined their average energy use in 2007. The study found the Madera home used half as much energy and its occupants saved $900 on utility bills. The Gainesville-based International Carbon Bank and Exchange calculated the amount of carbon emissions saved by the Madera home. A credit for reducing one metric ton of emissions typically fetches $10 on the global market. A metric ton is equivalent to about 2,200 pounds. GRU paid the homeowners $86 for 8.6 tons of credits. While the payment was a voluntary demonstration, a GRU utility analyst said regulators might in the future require reductions and lead utilities to seek such credits. According to Jim Dorr, VP of National Accounts for ECO-Block, “To our knowledge this is the first Eco-Block Insulating Concrete Form home to receive carbon credits directly from their utility.”


ECO-Block LLC is one of the world’s most innovative and experienced providers of insulating concrete form (ICF) systems. The Texas-based company has developed the strongest, most versatile and technologically advanced ICF systems available for both commercial and residential construction. With manufacturing strategically located throughout North America and overseas locations, ECO-Block has a true coast-to-coast presence. ECO-Block offers unparalleled support in training, code compliance and technical assistance. ICFs offer a cost-effective building solution that is mold-free, durable and fire-resistant. These buildings have withstood tornadoes, fires and natural disasters. Use of ECO-Block’s ICF technology creates super-insulated, monolithic concrete walls that save energy, keep noise out and improve air quality. For the contractor, ECO-Block’s unique panel system offers ease of construction and design adaptability. With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why ICF technology is rapidly integrating into mainstream commercial and residential developments. Visit our website to learn more.

ECO-Block: Simpler, Faster, Better, Greener

http://www.eco-block.com/

What constitutes a green lifestyle?

Does replacing all your incandescent bulbs with Compact Florescent light bulbs constitute a green lifestyle? Don't get me wrong EVERY bulb in my house is a Compact Florescent bulb but I feel as though there should be more to it than that. We recycle at our house, try to buy as many organic products as we can, the AC is on a programmable thermostat, I shade my windows to keep energy costs down, but I wonder is there more we can easily do? I invite all members and readers to comment on what they do to live a "Green Lifestyle". Who knows we may all learn some interesting tips and tricks.