Legislative Pushback on Green Energy Policies
An Ohio congressman is challenging new home energy mandates from the Biden administration. Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio) introduced the Home Affordability for Americans resolution, arguing that these green energy regulations inflate home prices.
Rising Costs and Homeownership Challenges
Davidson claims the Biden administration’s green energy mandate would increase new home prices by $31,000. With home prices at record highs and mortgage rates at a 20-year peak, he argues that home affordability is at an all-time low. “Bidenomics is killing Americans’ homeownership dreams,” Davidson stated. Thirty-eight other representatives support this resolution.
New Energy Standards
The resolution responds to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Agriculture’s decision on new energy standards for federally financed homes. These rules mandate that all HUD- and USDA-financed single-family homes meet the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code. HUD-financed multi-family homes must also comply with this code.
Benefits of Energy Efficiency
The Biden administration defends the new regulations, stating they will save residents money, reduce energy use, and cut pollution. HUD reports that energy costs for single-family homes will drop by over $950 annually. Furthermore, the regulations are expected to reduce carbon emissions by 6.35 million metric tons over 30 years, leading to societal cost savings of $13.9 million per year.
Marion McFadden, principal deputy assistant secretary for community planning and development at HUD, highlighted the benefits: “Families should never have to choose between heating their home in winter or cooling during a heat wave. Investing in energy efficiency during home construction benefits residents and helps reduce carbon emissions.”
These emissions savings are equivalent to removing 46,000 cars from the road each year. The new energy standards are part of broader efforts to address energy market trends and promote sustainable living.
Conclusion
As the debate continues, Davidson and his supporters aim to prevent what they see as burdensome green energy policies. In contrast, the Biden administration and HUD emphasize the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits of the new energy standards. This ongoing conflict highlights the challenges and opportunities in the evolving solar energy market and the push for sustainable energy solutions.
Source：nypost.com
