EP143 Sweat Equity Meets Smart Energy: Inside a Habitat Zero Energy Ready Build with Kevin L. Smith (July 2025)

EP143 Sweat Equity Meets Smart Energy: Inside a Habitat Zero Energy Ready Build with Kevin L. Smith (July 2025)

From RESTalk by Bill Spohn

August 11, 2025 · 26 min

About this episode

Bill Spohn interviews Kevin L. Smith about a groundbreaking energy-efficient housing project.

"When you're in construction, you're just building sticks and bricks—until you understand how a house actually performs." – Kevin Smith In this episode of RESTalk, Bill sits down with Kevin L. Smith, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County, to explore a groundbreaking project: the Bennett Point Phase 1 homes, which earned both ENERGY STAR and DOE Zero Energy Ready Home certifications. Kevin shares how his team collaborated with Energize Delaware and New Ecology to build high-performance, all-electric townhomes aimed at long-term affordability and health for first-time homebuyers. From redesigning floor plans to accommodate advanced HVAC systems to navigating volunteer labor and contractor training, Kevin explains the behind-the-scenes coordination needed to hit ultra-low RESNET® HERS® scores of 33–35—among the best in Delaware without solar. The conversation wraps with reflections on lessons learned, surprises in the process, and guidance for other Habitat affiliates looking to level up their housing mission. Other quotes from our conversation: "We want homeowners to walk into their house confident they can maintain it, save money, and breathe easier—literally and…

People in this episode

Host: Bill Spohn

Guest: Kevin L. Smith

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County, Energize Delaware, New Ecology

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