WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) has taken on the role of co-chair of the High-Performance Buildings Congressional Caucus. Formed in 2008, the Caucus heightens awareness among federal policymakers about the major impacts that buildings have on the health, safety and welfare of the general public, and the opportunities to design, construct, and operate buildings addressing these factors.

“This Caucus is about finding practical ways to make progress in Washington,” Welch said. “Despite the heated political rhetoric, common ground does exist. For example, while there are big differences on energy policy, everyone agrees that using less energy is a good thing. So why not work together to make homes and buildings more energy efficient? It’s simply common sense. This Caucus will help identify more areas where we can work together, and I am pleased to serve as its co-chair.”

The Caucus is supported by the High-Performance Building Congressional Caucus Coalition, a group of over 160 technical societies, associations, and businesses.

“The Coalition is delighted with Welch’s new leadership role as the Democratic co-chair of the Caucus,” said Doug Read, chair of the Caucus Coalition. “His leadership over the years on building energy efficiency and sustainability has resulted in the introduction and passage of several key bills in Congress. The Coalition looks forward to working with him and the rest of the Caucus to continue educating members of Congress on the importance of high-performance buildings issues.”

For more information, visit www.hpbccc.org.

Publication date: 1/7/2013