FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Edited 3-19-08

EPA NAMES ENVIRONMENTAL BUILDING SOLUTIONS 2008 ENERGY STAR® PARTNER OF THE YEAR

Green Collar Crew, Inc. earns award for protecting the environment through energy efficiency.

[Charlotte, NC March 4] – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has named
Green Collar Crew, Inc.(GCC) as a 2008 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for its outstanding work in fostering consumer awareness and high demand for energy efficient and green homes over the past year. GCC’s accomplishments were recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 1, 2008.

GCC provides the evaluation, testing, and independent verification required for ENERGY STAR certified homes. As one of the first Home Energy Raters in Charlotte, GCC has contributed firsthand to the energy efficiency and green housing market transformation by introducing the ENERGY STAR for New Homes program to the region and using it as a vehicle to move homebuilders and homeowners to environmentally responsible building, retrofitting and remodeling. The company has rated an estimated 95% of the ENERGY STAR certified homes in Charlotte this year and it currently services over 90 builders in the region. GCC certified a total of 615 homes in 2007 and has already contracted to rate over 1,000 homes for 2008.

Besides rating homes for ENERGY STAR, the company helps builders construct tighter homes and perform the air sealing work associated with ensuring the homes can meet the certification. GCC also performs HVAC load calculations and seals crawl spaces for increased efficiency and better indoor air quality. Through its energy conservation services and partnership with the ENERGY STAR program, GCC has so far helped save 600,000 lbs of greenhouses gases from being emitted into the air.

“The growth in market share of ENERGY STAR qualified homes clearly shows that both home builders and home buyers are recognizing the importance of energy efficiency,” said ScottSpivak, President of Green Collar Crew, Inc. “The ENERGY STAR label on a new home means that it will be more efficient, comfortable, and durable; while reducing a third of energy costs and helping to protect the environment.” 

GCC goes beyond certifying new homes for ENERGY STAR. The company offers the samebenefits for existing homes. They conduct Home Energy & Health Assessments to help homeowners make energy smart choices for their home; such as air sealing, improving duct work and adding proper ventilation. GCC provides educational material to help homeowners make the suggested home improvements on their own or GCC will perform the work with its professional Green Collar Crew.

About ENERGY STAR:
ENERGY STAR was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as avoluntary market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through increased
energy efficiency. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov or calltoll-free 1-888-STAR-YES (1-888-782-7937).