As the recipient of the Sustained Excellence Award from the Environmental Protection Agency in recognition of continued leadership in protecting the environment through energy efficiency, the builder continues to research energy-saving techniques to improve on its building practices.

"Energy efficiency is something we are continually striving to improve," said Annette Bubak, advertising manager for Astoria Homes. "With the rising cost of monthly utility bills, offering Energy Star-rated homes addresses homeowner concerns over rising energy costs and helps save consumers money through energy conservation, thereby reducing utility costs."

Astoria Homes is the only builder in Las Vegas this year to receive the Sustained Excellence Award, according to McCormick, and only one of four home builders in the entire nation to receive the award. The builder was also named Energy Star Partner of the Year in 2003, 2005 and 2006.

"The Sustained Excellence Award is an honor that is growing in significance each year as the Energy Star program continues to expand into more and more markets nationally," McCormick said.

The Southern Nevada-based home builder has followed the EPA-backed program for more than six years and is a member of Nevada Energy Star Partners, a coalition of Southern Nevada home builders, developers, retailers, mortgage providers, energy consultants as well as local utilities promoting energy conservation.

Energy Star-rated homes meet building guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Energy Star-qualified homes can include a variety of energy-efficient features, such as effective insulation, high-performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment and Energy Star-qualified lighting and appliances. These features contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, in addition to lowering energy demand and reducing air pollution.