Following a story MHProNews published Oct. 24, 2013 regarding a pilot project to replace ten aging factory-built homes with new energy efficient manufactured homes in Vermont, realestaterama reports the occupants will see an immediate 70 percent reduction in their energy costs. The new dwellings feature triple pane windows, heat recovery ventilation systems, high levels of insulation and improved air quality due to the lack of chemicals in the materials. Funders are providing purchase subsidies with down payment assistance through Champlain Housing Trust and the Addison County Community Trust. The homes are being built by the Vermont Manufactured Housing Innovation Project, a pilot collaboration led by the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, Efficiency Vermont, the High Meadows Fund and others. Tropical Storm Irene damaged or destroyed a disproportionate number of factory-built homes. “This project puts Vermont on the leading edge of the market transformation to truly resilient and affordable housing,” said Gov. Peter Shumlin. “Buyers need more options, and this is the first step in changing the conversation about what is possible in the manufactured housing market.”

(Photo credit: Anne Ones–Tuscon AZ Habitat for Humanity)