The new Sawmill Village, a gated whole ownership development atop West Virginia’s Snowshoe Mountain, is touting the fact that it’s the first development of its kind in the state to receive an Energy Star label at the top of its list of amenities. So what is Energy Star, and what does earning a label mean?

Energy Star is a voluntary, government-backed program created to help conserve natural resources through superior energy efficiency. The program independently rates buildings on their level of energy efficiency, compared with similar buildings nationwide, and assigns each building a score from 1–100 based on its percentile performance in energy consumption. Buildings receiving a score higher than 75 are eligible for the Energy Star label.

The Sawmill development, which has committed to building 100% of its luxury homes to this standard, utilizes insulated panels to maximize climate control efficiency, as well as installing energy efficient windows and appliances within the residences. Propane, a clean burning fuel, is employed as an energy source, and developers are even looking into collecting storm water to be used for hydropower. The Village also uses geothermal heat to warm the residence swimming pools.

Going energy efficient has obvious benefits for any conscientious homeowner, including lower utility costs (up to 30%, according to Energy Star’s website), better indoor air quality and a higher resale value. And energy efficiency is not just a consideration for those building a house from scratch; there’s plenty of work you can do to your existing home to make a significant impact. Remodeling with energy efficiency in mind can even mean tax credits. On Feb. 27, 2008, the House passed $18.1 billion in renewable energy tax incentives (H.R. 5351), including an extension of the tax credit for energy-efficient home improvements.

Making small improvements to your home can make a big difference. If you want to make some energy efficient changes without spending a lot of money, the Energy Star website recommends the following: sealing gaps, cracks and other leaks that let outside air into your home; adding insulation in the attic; sealing and insulating air ducts that run through attics or crawlspaces; repairing or replacing old or poorly functioning heating and cooling systems and appliances; and installing Energy Star qualified lighting in your home. The Energy Star website is a great resource for advice and products to consider when greening your first or second home.