SPRINGFIELD -- The first few homes in Springfield's first energy efficient subdivision are almost complete, but builders are already worried that pending legislation known as "cap and trade" will be a barrier to future projects.

Pearson Park Homes are meant to show that building green doesn't have to break the bank.

Using more insulation and less wood, installing coated windows that stop light and including fiberglass doors will cut utility bills in these homes by 25 to 50 percent.

"We're keeping the cold out and heat outside and the livability inside," explained Richland Homes developer Brian Willaby.

Willaby sees the economic incentive in getting ahead of the environmental curve.  But what he and other builders don't want is any new government regulations forcing him to do more.

"The natural inclination is to look for a house that's more efficient. Problem is, if they look for a new house that's more efficient that's built under the new rules they won't be able to afford it anymore," said Matt Morrow, president of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Springfield.

The so-called cap and trade bill that's already cleared the U.S. House includes new national building standards that would require builders like Willaby to go even further.  That could include conserving more water or using different material.

"Essentially it transplants the most stringent requirements in the U.S. to the rest of the U.S," Morrow said.

But St. Louis developer Jim Trout said national standards are needed to produce significant energy savings.

"We know what we can do with houses. We know if we're all doing it next year, it's going to drive the cost down, it'll restore confidence in homebuilding," Trout said.

But the greener you get, the more expensive it becomes.

"This home is gonna sell for $189,900. It's a 1,834 square feet living area. You're probably looking at a $200,000 house, Willaby said, when asked how much the House legislation would boost the price.

But Trout argued an upfront cost is necessary.  He sees a short term sacrifice for all builders will pay off as a long term investment.

"If it's a level playing field that's mandated across the board, everybody will be doing it. They will not have an expense that's greater than their competitors," said Trout.

Pearson Park will hold an open house Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Directions to get there: Take Division (YY) 2.5 miles east of Highway 65 to Farm Road 203.  Make a left and the subdivision is a 1/2 miles on the right.  For questions, call Tom Barr at 894-4799.

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