* 30% reduction immediately (will not be enforced until 2012)

* 50% reduction for residential by 2014 and commercial by 2015

* 55% reduction for residential by 2017 and commercial by 2018

* 60% reduction for residential by 2020 and commercial by 2021

* Increased reductions continue incrementally until 2029 when a 75% reduction is expected for residential and by 2030 for commercial building.

If, however, the Department of Energy decides that any of the above targets are not cost effective, they will set new targets.

How will this new bill effect the building industry?

At least initially, there will be a job boom in the energy industry. There will be a demand for energy advisors who perform blower door air leak tests, energy raters, insulation contractors, high efficiency window, furnace and appliance distributors, and other energy saving home products.

Utility company growth forecasts will have to be drastically reduced. Plans for expansion or budgets for new power plant construction may no longer be necessary.

To achieve the high levels of savings, renewable power sources such as solar or wind will have to be used. This will likely create more jobs, giving this industry a needed boost.

Builders will either sink or swim. If they don't adapt to the new demands and technologies, they will lose out to others who will. They will be turning to energy building consultants to satisfy a growing need for education and technical advice.

Already we're seeing a trend where home buyers are shying away from the McMansions and moving toward smaller, energy efficient housing. Energy Star rated appliances are common place as are heat pumps and other energy saving devices. The climate bill still has to pass the Senate, but it's a beginning, and hopefully a trend toward promoting a more conscientious, building industry. Lynn Bulmer