StoneField Estates, Mt. Cobb, Pa.

Individual 500-gallon underground propane tanks fuel Energy Star appliances throughout this 116-home development.

When StoneField Estates was first on the drawing board, Outlook Construction CEO Chuck Skowronski wanted to create a development that merged high energy efficiency with top-quality amenities. Propane allowed him to accomplish both goals.

To start, each residence in the 116-home development is fueled by a 500-gallon underground propane tank. The tanks supply propane to each home via a metered distribution system, and each home is fully outfitted with Energy Star-qualified propane appliances.

"This allows my homebuyers to have the benefits of saving energy by installing high-efficiency propane furnaces and water heaters, while enhancing the beauty of their homes with gas lights, logs, and fireplaces," Skowronski says. "Our homebuyers also have the flexibility of adding luxury items, such as pool and spa heaters or backup generators, for comfort and recreation."

As a result of its commitment to propane, Outlook Construction was honored at the 2007 International Builders' Show for an Energy Star Idea Home at StoneField Estates. That same home was later featured on the PBS broadcast, "Energy Savings From Your Biggest Investment."