AWWA ACE58204

In this era of escalating utility costs and increasing concern for the quality and quantity of drinking water and the need to reduce Green House Gases (GHG), there is an opportunity for residential developers to build homes which establish new levels of water and energy efficiency. This paper discusses how Durham Region in Ontario, Canada has partnered with home builder Tribute Communities to create a community which uses less water and energy. The route being pursued to achieve increased water and energy efficiencies is through the upgrading of water-using fixtures and appliances indoors and refining turf and plant choices outdoors. By concentrating on upgrading fixtures and appliances, there will be immediate reductions in water and energy use. The costs associated with upgrading, monitoring, and reporting the savings will be borne by new homebuyers, Durham Region and its funding partners. The other technical and financial partners are Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). CMHC is contributing expertise and funding toward the landscaping, toilets and showerheads. NRCan is providing funding and expertise in evaluating ENERGY STAR dishwashers, refrigerators, clothes washers and dryers. All involved will benefit from gaining real-world data on homeowners' use of these fixtures and appliances. Includes table.