WASHINGTON — The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) announced that it applauds Congress for authorizing the International Code Council (ICC) 700 National Green Building Standard (NGBS) for all military residential construction, which represents 16 percent of the federal real estate portfolio. NAHB said this action will provide affordable choices in meeting military energy and water reduction goals.

“We commend the commitment of Congress to offer options in residential construction to maximize resources and cost effectiveness in military housing,” said Kevin Kelly, NAHB chairman. “The NGBS is a cost-effective green building rating system, and the only residential standard approved by the American National Standards Institute.”

Previously, the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program was the only green rating system specifically approved for use for new military construction projects. With this action, Congress intends to have the U.S. Department of Defense consider all facets of certification going forward, including cost, when deciding among rating systems. Project managers can select the NGBS, LEED, or the Green Globes program when choosing a green certification for new residential or remodeling projects.

For more information, visit www.nahb.org.

Publication date: 12/29/2014

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