How Brooklynites are cutting Energy Costs
The Passive House movement is redefining how homeowners approach energy efficiency, emphasizing airtight construction, superior insulation and smart design over expensive mechanical systems. In Brooklyn, architects are creatively blending modern sustainability with historic charm by adding rigid insulation to roofs, sealing air leaks with blower door testing and installing high-performance triple-glazed windows that drastically reduce heating and cooling costs. These upgrades not only cut energy use but also improve comfort, soundproofing and indoor air quality—all without compromising aesthetics. For those not ready for a full retrofit, smaller improvements like window inserts, caulking and Passive House tape can still deliver significant energy savings.
Modern green retrofits go beyond insulation and windows—architects are leveraging solar panels, skylights and operable exterior shades to optimize natural light and reduce heat gain. Even in landmarked buildings, homeowners can add rooftop solar or join community solar programs to offset electricity costs. Other upgrades, like energy-efficient appliances, insulated cellars and energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), enhance comfort and sustainability without full gut renovations. While technologies like geothermal systems remain costly, incentives and long-term savings make them appealing for forward-thinking projects. Ultimately, the evolution of green design shows that energy efficiency isn’t just about saving money—it’s about future-proofing homes for comfort, resilience and a lower environmental footprint.
