Sustainability has become more than a trend—it’s a defining priority for renters who want healthier living environments, reduced utility costs, and communities that are designed with long-term environmental responsibility in mind. In the rapidly growing North Raleigh area—where many residents are also searching for Pet-friendly apartments near Research Triangle Park—one apartment community stands out as a leader in this shift: The Piedmont Raleigh, a development built with environmental performance, resident wellness, and energy efficiency at its core.
At the center of this commitment lies its NGBS Green certification, a distinction awarded to residential properties that achieve measurable benchmarks in sustainability. For renters seeking a home that supports both comfort and eco-conscious living, understanding how The Piedmont Raleigh leverages NGBS standards offers valuable insight into why it excels—both as a modern apartment community and as a model for sustainable development in North Carolina.
This article breaks down what NGBS Green certification means, how The Piedmont Raleigh meets these rigorous criteria, and what advantages residents gain from choosing an apartment built around energy efficiency, healthier indoor air quality, and resource-conscious design.
Understanding NGBS Green Certification
To fully appreciate what makes The Piedmont Raleigh’s approach exceptional, it helps to understand the system behind its sustainability designation. The National Green Building Standard (NGBS) is one of the most respected frameworks for evaluating and certifying green residential construction in the United States. Developed by the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the NGBS provides third-party verification that a building meets performance levels in multiple sustainability categories.
NGBS Certification Levels
NGBS offers four levels of certification, each representing a deeper commitment to environmental performance:
- Bronze – Entry level, meeting foundational sustainability practices
- Silver – Mid-level achievement requiring enhanced energy, water, and indoor environmental quality performance
- Gold – Advanced achievement, with strong efficiencies across multiple categories
- Emerald – The highest level, representing top-tier sustainability standards and resource efficiency
Each level requires meeting a variety of credits across categories such as:
- Energy efficiency
- Water conservation
- Indoor air quality
- Site design and land use
- Building materials
- Operational performance
What NGBS Certification Means for Residents
For renters, an NGBS-certified apartment community offers:
- Lower energy and water bills because of efficient systems and appliances
- Better air quality, reducing allergens and improving wellbeing
- Reduced environmental impact, helping residents live more sustainably
- Smarter building design, resulting in improved comfort and reliability
- Long-term property value, because NGBS-built communities tend to age better and maintain higher demand
This certification signals more than green marketing language—it represents measurable performance backed by an accredited verification process.
How The Piedmont Raleigh Achieves NGBS Silver Certification
The Piedmont Raleigh is NGBS Green Silver-certified, meaning it exceeds standard building practices and incorporates stronger efficiencies, healthier materials, and more thoughtful design choices than typical apartment communities.
1. Energy-Efficient Appliances and Building Systems
A major contributor to its certification is its suite of Energy Star-rated appliances. These systems consume significantly less electricity and water than traditional appliances, directly lowering monthly utility bills. Key features include:
- High-efficiency refrigerators
- Low-energy dishwashers
- Modern microwaves and ovens designed for reduced electricity use
- Efficient washer and dryer units
Paired with well-designed building envelopes, insulated walls, and high-performance windows, the property ensures reduced heat loss and improved climate control throughout the year.
2. Smart Thermostats for Cleaner, Controlled Energy Use
Every home at The Piedmont Raleigh includes smart thermostats, allowing residents to automate heating and cooling for optimal comfort and efficiency. These devices support sustainability in multiple ways:
- Scheduled temperature adjustments reduce unnecessary energy usage
- Remote control allows residents to manage climate settings on the go
- Energy monitoring tools help renters understand and improve consumption patterns
Smart home features are increasingly expected in modern apartments, but at The Piedmont Raleigh, they are integrated with sustainability goals in mind—helping the property meet NGBS energy credits and making residents’ daily routines more efficient.
3. Water Conservation That Benefits Residents and the Environment
Water efficiency is a core pillar of the NGBS rating system. The Piedmont Raleigh incorporates:
- Low-flow faucets and showerheads
- High-efficiency toilets that reduce gallons per flush
- Water-saving landscaping that minimizes irrigation needs
- Smart irrigation systems that prevent waste and adjust watering schedules based on environmental factors
With rising water costs in urban and suburban areas, these features provide meaningful financial benefits for residents while reducing strain on local water infrastructure.
4. EV Charging for a Future-Ready Community
One of the standout features at The Piedmont Raleigh is its on-site electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. As EV ownership accelerates, communities offering convenient charging access are increasingly valuable—and essential for supporting sustainable transportation.
By integrating EV charging into its amenity package, The Piedmont Raleigh not only supports current EV drivers but also positions itself for future growth as more residents adopt electric cars. This proactive approach aligns with NGBS criteria under site development and transportation efficiency.
5. Sustainable Materials and Construction Practices
NGBS certification also evaluates the materials and construction practices used during development. The Piedmont Raleigh incorporates:
- Low-VOC paints and finishes that improve indoor air quality
- Sustainably sourced building materials
- Construction waste management practices that reduce landfill impact
- Energy-conscious mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
All of these contribute to a healthier indoor environment, reduced resource consumption, and enhanced overall sustainability.
6. Healthy Indoor Air Quality
Good indoor air quality is central to NGBS and essential for resident wellness. The Piedmont Raleigh supports healthy living through:
- High-performance ventilation systems
- MERV-rated air filters that capture finer particles
- Mold-resistant materials and moisture management strategies
- Thoughtful building layout that encourages natural light and airflow
For renters who prioritize health, wellness, and clean air—especially those with allergies or sensitivities—these features make a measurable difference.
The Resident Advantages of Living in an NGBS Green Community
The Piedmont Raleigh’s sustainability efforts are not just technical building features—they translate directly into everyday benefits for residents.
1. Lower Utility Bills
Thanks to energy-efficient appliances, HVAC systems, water-saving fixtures, and tight building envelopes, residents enjoy lower monthly costs. This makes sustainable living both responsible and financially practical—especially important as utility costs rise nationwide.
2. A Healthier Indoor Environment
Low-VOC finishes, strong ventilation, filtered air, and mold-resistant materials reduce contaminants and improve overall indoor comfort. Residents benefit from:
- Fewer allergens
- Better humidity control
- Cleaner air circulation
For families, remote workers, and long-term renters, this creates a noticeably more comfortable home environment.
3. A More Sustainable Daily Lifestyle
From EV charging to reduced electricity and water consumption, sustainability becomes part of everyday living—without requiring extra effort from residents. Small choices, like using less energy or relying on smart thermostats, collectively reduce environmental impact.
4. Modern, Comfortable, Future-Proof Homes
Many renters seek homes that align with both current lifestyle demands and future expectations. The Piedmont Raleigh meets both by integrating:
- Smart home technology
- Efficient building design
- Sustainable operational practices
These features ensure long-term comfort, longevity of the property, and a stronger sense of community identity.
5. Higher Long-Term Value
Sustainable buildings tend to hold value longer, attract more consistent renters, and perform better over time. For residents, this means living in a community that is well-maintained, forward-looking, and highly desirable in the North Raleigh rental market.
How Sustainability Enhances the Lifestyle Experience
While sustainability is central to The Piedmont Raleigh, it also functions as a foundation for a modern, elevated living experience. The community’s design integrates eco-friendly features with luxury amenities, creating a lifestyle that is both responsible and refined.
Residents enjoy:
- A resort-style pool
- Social lounges and co-working areas
- Fitness facilities with modern equipment
- Pet-friendly spaces
- Outdoor gathering areas designed to minimize environmental impact
These features complement the sustainable aspects of the property, offering a community experience that feels cohesive, intentional, and carefully planned.
Why The Piedmont Raleigh Sets a New Standard for Sustainable Apartments in North Raleigh
As more renters prioritize wellness, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, apartment communities like The Piedmont Raleigh demonstrate what the future of multifamily housing can—and should—look like. Its NGBS Green Silver certification is not just a label; it is proof of the community’s commitment to thoughtful construction, energy and water efficiency, modern technology, and resident wellbeing.
By blending sustainability with comfort, smart design, and elevated amenities, The Piedmont Raleigh stands out as a premier example of Sustainable Living in North Raleigh: How The Piedmont Raleigh Uses NGBS Green Standards for Better Apartments.
For renters looking to balance modern convenience with eco-friendly values, this community delivers a truly exceptional living experience—one that supports both a better lifestyle today and a more sustainable tomorrow.