Pike Research, Boulder, Colo., released the Energy Efficient Homes study examining the U.S. market for energy-efficient products and services in both new home construction and remodeling industries. The study analyzes the new home and remodeling industries, home products and appliances, home energy evaluations, and utility services. Pike reported that as new home sales and remodeling activity slowed, residential product and service categories experienced a drop in business, but coming out of the recession a positive outlook about green products and services for homes is emerging. This sector holds the potential to generate significant new revenue opportunities as well as creating a large number of new green collar jobs.

“Energy efficiency is stepping into the light after a long period of obscurity,” said Pike’s managing director, Clint Wheelock. “A number of factors are converging to make energy efficient residential products and services a hot sector over the next several years. These drivers include increased environmental awareness among consumers, government incentives, utility energy efficiency programs, and new offerings and rebates from product manufacturers.”

Pike Research’s analysis highlights growth potential for several key residential energy efficiency categories in the United States including:

• The home energy auditing business is a strong indicator of the coming of age for energy efficient homes. Pike Research forecasts that this market will nearly triple in size, from $8.1 billion in 2009 to $23.4 billion by 2014.

• The energy efficient home improvement market is forecast to increase from $38.3 billion in 2009 to $50.2 billion by 2014. This category includes upgraded electrical systems, appliances and major equipment, HVAC systems, roofing replacements and window/door replacements.

The report includes five-year market forecasts as well as profiles of key industry players. An executive summary of the report is available for free download on the firm’s website, www.pikeresearch.com.