Factors Influencing the Current Residential Energy Related Building Practices in North Dakota
Abstract
The aim of the present study is twofold, develop a quantitative understanding of the
current residential building practices related to energy efficiency in North Dakota and
combine that understanding with an exploratory qualitative evaluation of the perceptions of
those involved. in the residential housing industry including homebuilders, realtors, and
homebuyers of home energy efficiency.
A two part study was undertaken to begin to develop this understanding. A survey
of professional home builders was conducted to assess the construction practices that are
currently being utilized in North Dakota. Sixteen qualitative interviews with homebuilders,
realtors, and homebuyers were conducted to explore how these stakeholders value energy
related issues in the residential housing industry. The data from these interviews were
analyzed to investigate how energy efficiency was perceived by these stakeholders.