#United States #Energy Efficiency #Albuquerque #Richmond American Homes #Sekisui House

Richmond American Homes of New Mexico Celebrated for Its Sustainable Building Practices

Richmond American Homes (RAH) of New Mexico, a division of Sekisui House U.S., Inc., proudly announces its recognition by Powering New Mexico's High Performance New Homes Program. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights the company’s unwavering dedication to sustainability within the homebuilding sector. By promoting the construction of energy-efficient and comfortable homes, RAH continues to make significant strides in enhancing the quality of life for residents in New Mexico.

Commitment to Sustainability

RAH has earned the distinction of being New Mexico's builder with the highest median kilowatt-hour (kWh) efficiency rate, as acknowledged by PNM. Additionally, the company stands out for having the most ENERGY STAR®-certified homes in the entire state. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ENERGY STAR®-certified homes not only result in reduced utility bills but also provide superior indoor air quality and stronger resale value. These homes are built with stringent standards and undergo independent inspections to ensure their energy efficiency.

The past two decades have seen Richmond American implement various green initiatives, yielding impressive results for both the environment and homeowners. This comprehensive approach has not only dealt with energy concerns but has also emphasized water conservation and improved indoor air quality. The goal is to create healthier living spaces that are beneficial to both residents and the planet while also minimizing costs.

In 2022, Richmond American achieved a remarkable HERS® Index of 49—this surpasses the company’s goal of 50, managed three years ahead of schedule. The HERS®, or Home Energy Rating System, serves as a nationally recognized standard for assessing energy efficiency in homes. A lower score indicates a greater level of energy efficiency, showcasing the careful planning involved in every home created by Richmond American.

Innovative Green Initiatives

In line with its sustainability goals, Richmond American has implemented numerous environmentally-friendly practices, such as:

• - WaterSense® fixtures implemented according to community plans.
• - Programmable thermostats that optimize energy use in heating and cooling.
• - Efficient HVAC systems that reduce energy consumption while ensuring comfortable indoor environments.
• - Low-e windows tailored to market demands to provide better insulation and energy efficiency.
• - Advanced framing techniques that enhance structural integrity and reduce waste material.
• - Low-VOC paints and carpets that improve indoor air quality by minimizing harmful emissions.
• - Award-winning radon mitigation systems to ensure safer indoor environments for residents.
• - Indoor airPLUS certification, a program aimed at improving indoor air quality.

These measures are just a few examples of how RAH continuously strives to enhance the sustainability of its homes and communities.

A Legacy of Homebuilding Excellence

Sekisui House U.S., Inc., the parent company of Richmond American, reflects a rich history that began in 1972, formerly known as M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. Today, it is one of the largest homebuilders in the country, having facilitated the dreams of over 250,000 homebuyers. The commitment of Richmond American Homes to quality construction, customer satisfaction, and value serves as a cornerstone of their operations across multiple states, including New Mexico, California, and Texas among others.

With an unwavering promise to build better homes for both today and the future, Richmond American Homes of New Mexico continues to set the standard for sustainability in homebuilding, championing practices that not only benefit homeowners but also protect the natural environment.