DOE Advances Energy-Efficient Home Retrofits Through Nine Research Teams
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Building America program is supporting nine retrofit solutions teams focused on improving energy efficiency, affordability and performance in existing residential buildings. The initiative brings together housing organizations, researchers, manufacturers, utilities and construction professionals to develop cost-effective technologies and practical retrofit strategies that can be implemented across diverse housing markets.
The teams are addressing challenges associated with high-performance building upgrades, including heat pump installations, insulation improvements, air sealing, ventilation systems and energy-efficient water heating. Projects encompass single-family homes, multifamily properties and manufactured housing, with an emphasis on reducing installation barriers, improving indoor air quality and strengthening building resilience. Each team is conducting field validation and demonstration projects to identify solutions that can be replicated in communities nationwide.
With project completion dates extending through 2028, the initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of scalable residential retrofit technologies while helping homeowners reduce energy costs and improve comfort. By combining building science research with real-world implementation, the program seeks to provide contractors, builders and housing professionals with practical strategies for upgrading America’s existing housing stock.
