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A garden on the roof
A garden on the roof
The bill calls for buildings and houses to be 30% more energy efficient by 2012 and 50% more energy efficient by 2016.

Buildings in the U.S. use about 70% of the electricity consumed and about 40% of the total energy used.

Expect to see more insulation, more efficient appliances and lighting, better windows and even insulating gardens on the roof as builders scramble to meet the code.

The bill's supporters say the industry is already moving in this direction and consumers shouldn't notice too much of a difference.

National Association of Home Builders disagrees. They say the standards are too aggressive and will raise housing costs.

NEXT: Efficient trailers

Last updated June 26 2009: 10:07 PM ET
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