Eco Factor: Energy-efficient house reduce energy costs up to 90 percent. Joining the group of the so-called “rare” green houses of the U.S. is a new kind of extremely energy-efficient home being built at 4717 North Chelsea Lane in Bethesda, MD. Presently under construction, the passive house can reduce energy costs up to 90 percent. O’Neill Development will have to comply by strict energy-efficiency standards to join the other 13 passive houses. The Bethesda home would be the first such house in the region. Situated on a small block in Bethesda, the eco-friendly house has been designed to work perfectly with the D.C. area’s peculiar weather patterns – extremes in temperatures and high humidity. The house will feature awnings that will automatically open on its right side when the summer sun smiles and will remain closed during the winter so the sun can heat the home. The passive house technique is among the most rigorous building standards, and calls for a nearly air-tight home. The $1.689 million house is scheduled for completion in spring 2011. Via: TBD
