SystemVision™ Program Helps Provide Energy Efficient Housing in Downtown Durham

DURHAM, N.C. - Advanced Energy teamed up with nonprofit developer, Jack Preiss, of New Directions for Downtown, to complete an affordable and efficient apartment complex for low-income residents with disabilities. The project, Andover Apartments, is located in Downtown Durham at Liberty and Elizabeth streets. The project consists of 10 efficiency apartments and an office. As a result of increased energy bills and higher poverty levels, the need for energy efficient housing in this part of Durham is growing rapidly.

Through Advanced Energy's efficient housing program, SystemVision™, a home is viewed as a complete system, rather than a home built with different parts. SystemVision™ helps builders improve the durability, energy efficiency and environmental impacts of a home while stressing the importance of health, comfort and safety of the residents. SystemVision™ specialists and Advanced Energy Building Science associates, Arnie Katz and Brian Coble, saw the need for energy efficient housing in Downtown Durham and provided valuable consultation to Jack Preiss and New Directions for Downtown. In North Carolina, there are more than 650 single-family homes built to SystemVision™ standards. This is the first multi-family SystemVision™ project.

Among other partners who helped make the project possible include the architect - Frank DePasquale of DTW, the general contractor - Raleigh-Durham Construction, solar water heating by Southern Energy Management, ventilation controllers donated by Tamarack Technologies, Inc., U.S. Representative David Price (4th District), North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Supportive Housing Program, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Durham County Department of Social Services and the City of Durham Housing and Community Development Department. Advanced Energy's participation was made possible by funding from HUD obtained by Rep. Price.

For more information on Advanced Energy or the SystemVision™ program, visit www.advancedenergy.org.