Program Overview

Midwest Building Solutions (MBS) is a results-oriented code and beyond-code training program for new home builders. The goal of this training is to promote a cost-effective and resource-efficient approach to building, resulting in new homes that are durable, safe, and comfortable and that exceed the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code® (IECC). The training also illustrates the flexibility and simplicity of the various code compliance options available to builders. Finally, it provides builders with information on ENERGY STAR® and other programs that offer marketing messages and tools to help builders sell their better building practices and energy-efficient homes.

The program provides MEEA with an important vehicle for expanding the reach of its programs, strengthening existing relationships and developing new networks of contacts in the home building industry--a constituency with a significant impact on energy use now and into the future.

How it Got Started

Midwest Building Solutions was originally developed with the support of the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association to address the growing energy use in homes. Increasing energy efficiency in new homes is especially important, as these efficiencies will last the lifetime of the house.

Impacts of Program

To date, over 300 new home builders have been trained on building energy- and resource- efficient homes through Midwest Building Solutions. Homes built today typically have a life expectancy of 75 years, so any effort to make them more energy efficient will have lasting benefits and savings for the lifetime of the home and our future.

Regional Collaboration

The program has been successfully implemented in both Illinois and Ohio through the sponsorship support of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation and the Ohio Department of Development, Office of Energy Efficiency.

Call to Action

The Midwest Building Solutions curriculum is easily customized for any state and offer tremendous benefits for builders and the environment. Costs of the program are low and cover marketing, minor curriculum updates and training costs. To learn more about energy efficient building and construction, contact Paige Knutsen at 312-587-8390 x19 or pknutsen@mwalliance.org.