Energy efficient design and using the sun to reduce utility cost has been a passion of mine for the past 31 years. In 1979, I built my first energy efficient home modeled after the Arkansas House Design (2x6 walls insulated to R-19 and ceilings insulated to R-38). In 1982, I became an approved contractor with the Bonneville Power Administration through the local Benton County Public Utility District to install solar hot water systems in the Tri-City area. I installed over forty active and passive solar systems during the grant program. I still service many of the solar hot water systems today.In 1984, I built an energy efficient home in Canyon Lakes that had raised healed trusses for more insulation over the walls, a passive solar sun room with a masonry wall to capture and store the winter sun's heat, and a closed loop ground source heat pump. Still today this heat pump application is the most energy efficient method available.Today my focus has not changed; but improvements in building techniques and energy efficient materials have given me an opportunity to improve the efficiency of the structures I build. In the home that I just completed in Burbank Heights, our focus was on a tight building envelope. This included extra calking, raised healed trusses, spray foam in all exterior walls and ceilings, blown in blanket insulation in the exterior walls, extra window wrap and all exterior boxed corners were insulated with foam before the sheeting. A beautiful home built with extra attention to detail is not only a pleasure for the homeowner to live in but also very gratifying for the contractor to build.Building practices, materials, and codes continue to change. To stay current I belong to the local Home Builders Association, National Home Builders Association, Energy Star and Built Green Builders of the Tri-City area. I attend workshops that help me be the best in my field. Continuing education is key to a successful company.