Three Minnesota homebuilders—Stonegate Builders, Hanson Builders, Inc., and Lennar—have been recognized for their commitment to energy-efficient construction, earning Gold Designated Green Path Builder Status under Minnesota’s Green Path program. Paltrin Homes received Silver Status with 3 Master Certifications.
Minnesota’s Green Path, developed by Housing First Minnesota, is the state’s premier energy efficiency certification for new homes. It sets high industry standards, offering Advanced and Master certifications to homes that exceed energy code requirements. Builders earning a minimum of three certifications annually achieve Silver Status, while those reaching five or more earn Gold Status.
Other homebuilders that achieved one or more Advanced Certifications in 2025 include Brandl Anderson Homes, Inc., Eternity Homes, LLC, Bergeron Homes & Development, Inc., Creative Homes, Inc., Ron Clark Construction, and D.R. Horton, Inc.
Prospective buyers can visit Green Path certified homes on the Parade of Homes.
Minnesota homebuilders leading the nation in sustainability
Green Path certifications are based on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index, rated on a scale of 0 to 150, with lower numbers indicating a more energy-efficient home. Homes are rated on exterior walls, HVAC systems, water heating systems, leaks, quality insulation, seals, foundation, and air quality and flow.
In 2024, the average HERS score nationwide was 57, while the average score in Minnesota was 47—the lowest among states that test over 4,000 homes.
Minnesota’s Green Path continues to shape the future of homebuilding and reward the commitment of our state’s homebuilders. Its Home Performance Reports (HPRs) provide transparency for buyers and reinforce the value of energy-efficient construction.
With Minnesota already leading the nation in energy efficiency, builders like these demonstrate that sustainability is not just an industry trend—it’s a competitive advantage. Their achievements in 2025 signal a growing movement toward higher-performing, cost-efficient homes that benefit both homeowners and the environment.