Builders continue to advance high-performance homes
At EEBA’s 2025 High Performance Home Builder Summit, a panel of top home builders discussed how their commitment to high performance building stands despite shifts in federal programs. The panel called, “The Sustainability Waters Have Gotten a Bit Choppy…So What Now? ” moderated by by Sean Hunter, DuPont’s Global Sustainability Lead. The conversation hosted Aaron Smith (EEBA), Doug Tarry (Doug Tarry Homes), Megan Cordis (Beazer Homes), Stephen Myers (Thrive Home Builders) and Tim O’Brien (Tim O’Brien Homes).
To open the discussion, Aaron Smith, EEBA CEO, recognized the uncertainty many green home builders are currently feeling. With key federal programs such as 45L, 25C, and DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) under a transitional period, Smith confirmed that their priority holds strong, “For 42 years, EEBA has helped builders pursue high performance through every administration—red or blue,” said Smith. “We’ll keep doing that because it’s the right thing to do.”
Continuing on that note, the discussion shifted to the loss of the federal 45L tax credit. An incentive that was once worth up to $5,000 per home many builders described it as a positive, but not a dealbreaker for many clients.“We decided five years ago that all our homes would be Zero Energy Ready. It wasn’t about chasing incentives—it was about who we are.” said Beazer Homes’ Megan Cordis.” Those standards give customers comfort, durability and affordability.”
On the topic of building smarter, operational efficiency is a hidden sustainability strategy “If we can shorten build times, reduce interest costs, and turn homes faster with the same staff, that’s cutting waste and improving affordability—two sides of the same coin.” said O’Brien. Tarry added how conscience construction principles both reduce waste and build stronger trade relationship “Our trades charge us less because our sites are safer and more organized,” said Tarry. “Efficiency isn’t just energy—it’s operations.”
On final thoughts and mottos’ Stephen Myers, Thrive Home Builders described it perfectly, “Be a dang good builder,” said Myers. “Efficiency, quality, and process matter more than ever. Sustainability includes sustaining your business.”
