Energy-efficient homes are a fixture on the West Coast, outfitted with the latest in climate change-ready technology. Many West Coast cities, however, also have the most expansive carbon footprints in the country.
A recent analysis by Zillow identified San Jose, Calif. as the city with the most energy-efficient homes and the fifth largest carbon footprint in the nation. Four other California cities follow San Jose in the analysis, with high concentrations of energy-efficient homes and carbon footprints to match.
East Coast cities, according to the analysis, have the least expansive carbon footprints, but also the least energy-efficient homes, with Buffalo, N.Y. topping the analysis’ list.
The disparity, according to Zillow, highlights the trend toward energy-efficient technology in cities that need it most.
“Climate change is top-of-mind in California, and whether homeowners are reacting to environmental ethics or high energy costs, they are most likely to market energy-efficient technology when selling their homes,” says Zillow Chief Economist Dr. Svenja Gudell. “Between density and drought, Californians have a lot of reasons to find ways to make their homes more efficient—for the sake of the environment and their pocketbooks, too.”
Conundrum? Or commentary?
For more information, please visit www.zillow.com.
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