The California Energy Commission has approved new Building Energy Efficiency Standards that is says are 25% more efficient than previous standards for residential construction and 30% better for nonresidential construction.

"Improving the energy efficiency of buildings in which we will live and work will save Californians energy for decades," Energy Commissioner Karen Douglas said when the commission announced the standards. "These standards will help save consumers money on their utility bills, keep them comfortable in their homes and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through better, more efficient buildings."

The new package is known as the 2013 standards, though it does not take effect until Jan. 1, 2014. The commission says they offer builders better windows, insulation, lighting, ventilation systems and other features that reduce energy consumption in homes and businesses.