Gulf Power and Ledman Construction build EarthCents Home

Super energy-efficient homes are making their debut across the Gulf Coast. Gulf Power Company’s first certified EarthCents Home in Panama City will be featured at this year’s Parade of Homes May 10-17. The home is sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Panama City-Bay County Inc. as the Display/Scholarship Home.

Sandy Sims, Gulf Power manager of Public Affairs, said the EarthCents Home is designed to save money and energy.

“Our EarthCents Home exceeds Energy Star^® standards,” Sims said, “and the program builds on the strong foundation of our Good Cents home, the brand that was at the forefront of energy efficient home construction nationwide. It helps our customers save on their power bill — and can drastically reduce their carbon dioxide output.”

The 2,675-square-foot Craftsman style brick home features all of the latest energy saving appliances and construction methods.

Features of the Parade of Homes EarthCents Home

3019 Osprey Circle in the Osprey Cove subdivision in Lynn Haven

· 15 SEER heat pump (with new Earth-friendly 410A refrigerant)

· Open cell foam attic insulation installed on the roof decking (creates a sealed, semi-conditioned attic space)

· R19 blown cellulose wall insulation

· High efficiency Low E vinyl windows

· Solar thermal water heating

· Compact fluorescent light fixtures (CFLs)

· Energy Star^® rated dishwasher and refrigerator

· All ductwork and HVAC equipment in sealed, conditioned space

· Separate return air for master suite and each bedroom

EarthCents Home Facts

· The EarthCents designation ensures that a home exceeds the standards of Energy Star and is a least 20 percent more efficient than the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).

· For as little as $1,700 added cost to new construction, a home can be designated a super energy-efficient EarthCents Home.

· Customers can see a reduction of up to 25 percent annually in their energy bill.

· An EarthCents Home can reduce carbon dioxide by 5,776 lbs. per year.

Solar Thermal Water Heating Program Facts

Customers can receive a $1,000 rebate when a qualified contractor installs a new solar thermal water heating system. They also may be eligible for an additional $500 rebate from the State of Florida, as well as a 30 percent Federal Tax Credit available to tax payers through tax year 2016.

Program participants will receive a free home Energy Check Up, which includes energy savings tips, free compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), and guidelines for successful solar thermal water heating installations.

Here’s the great part — customers can save up to 75 percent on their annual water heating cost and reduce CO2 by 5,776 pounds per year.

A History of energy efficiency

In the early 1970s, Gulf Power introduced the energy efficiency standard for homebuilding, the GoodCents home program, that’s been used by utilities nationwide. In addition, Gulf Power was the first to offer an innovative home energy management program. Gulf Power’s energy efficiency programs have helped customers reduce their energy demand in Northwest Florida by 350 megawatts — enough to power 100,000 homes.

The EarthCents Home is just one of many Gulf Power EarthCents programs designed to help customers save money and energy. To find out more call (877) 655-4001 or visit www.gulfpower.com.

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. The company is a tax-paying utility with rates well below the national average. Gulf Power serves more than 400,000 customers in 10 counties throughout Northwest Florida. Our mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible energy to very satisfied customers in strong communities.