While going green has much to do with technological innovation, information technology (IT) has been underused in the quest to make our homes and workplaces more energy efficient and sustainable.

One of the largest consumers of electricity in most homes and offices is the heating and cooling system. Even though computerized  networks to control HVAC loads have been in place since the 1980’s, greater interaction between occupants and the technology may be necessary to maximize energy efficiency.

ABC's popular home makover show, Extreme makeover: Home Edition, will air their first green makeover this Sunday at 8pm EST.  Led by Doyle Custom Homes and the Building Industry Association of Washington , the green remodeling project takes on a 100 year old Seattle area home that was plagued with lead paint, asbestos tiles and rotting floor joists.  The green makeover plans to remodel the home to ENERGY STAR and National Green Building Standards to give the home's family, the Chapins, not only a safer place to live, but a more affordable one as well.

Even with the recent downturn of the real estate market, remodeliing projects are still all the rage among homeowners. While many undertake such projects for aesthetic reasons or just to spruce up their home, it’s always a good idea to keep the environment in mind.

You might feel that trying to be more eco-friendly will add to the cost of your home improvements.  However, this does not have to be the case. In fact you may even find considerable cost savings if “green” practices are taken into account.