Joining Callahan at the BEECN launch event were representatives of a number of network members: Jim Rogers, chairman, president, and CEO of Duke Energy and co-chair of the Alliance Board of Directors; Faren Dancer, owner of home-building firm Sundancer Creations and president of the Santa Fe Builders Association; Marty Durbin, vice president of federal affairs, American Chemistry Council (ACC); David Terry, executive director of the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO); and Wesley Warren, director of programs, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

"I believe that the most successful economies in the future will be the most energy efficient," said Rogers. "Achieving a set of nationwide energy efficiency building codes is one of the greatest opportunities we have and one of the easiest things we can do now to benefit consumers and strengthen our economy. Consistent building codes will also enhance our energy security and help us effectively address climate change."

"The residential builders in New Mexico have proved that energy efficiency can be achieved in all segments of the market, from affordable housing at 45 percent better than a current national code-built home, to zero energy homes at modest price points, and even to higher-end customs that are true energy producers," said Dancer. "The city of Santa Fe has mandated a 30 percent increase in energy efficiency for all new residential construction and will continue to increase the parameters in the coming years to meet the goal of zero carbon emissions by the year 2030."

"Successful green buildings leave a lighter footprint on the environment through conservation of resources, while at the same time balancing energy-efficient, cost-effective, low-maintenance products for construction," noted ACC's Durbin. "American chemistry is a leading innovator in the products that contribute to energy efficient buildings. A new study coming out next week will show that for every unit of greenhouse gases emitted directly and indirectly by the chemical industry, we enable more than two units of emission savings through the products and technologies we manufacture. We are proud to contribute to sustainable construction and green building design."

Terry of NASEO commented, "The state energy officials are pleased to participate in this broad coalition. The efforts of NASEO members are focused on addressing our nation's broad array of energy problems. Increasing the energy efficiency of building codes, coupled with increased levels of training, enforcement and compliance, is critical to our future."