The Habitat for Humanity of Durham, NC and Cree have begun construction on a house that will be 100% lit with LED-based solid-state lighting (SSL). Cree is sponsoring the construction of the home providing SSL products, and Cree employees are working as volunteers on the project that will yield a house that will deliver $250 in energy savings annually.

The SSL products for the new Durham home is part of Cree's previously-announced pledge to provide $1.5 million in SSL products for Habitat homes over three years. Chuck Swoboda, Cree chairman and CEO said, “We’re pleased to further our partnership with Habitat for Humanity by supplying LED lights to its U.S. homes and to personally be involved in building this particular home, as it benefits one of our hometown families.”

“Habitat for Humanity of Durham recognizes the benefits associated with LED lighting and sees this home as the ideal way to continue our goal of building affordable and sustainable housing for Habitat partner families,” said Miguel Rubiera, executive director, Habitat for Humanity of Durham. “We thank Cree for not only providing beautiful lighting, but for helping our homeowners save money on their electric bill.”

The new house will include Cree newest CR6 downlight among other SSl products. Swoboda said, “At Cree, we strive to provide consumers and businesses with cost-saving and energy-efficient LED lighting products to help ease the burden of rising energy costs.”

The partners expect to complete the Durham home by October 2010. Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity us built, renovated, or improved 350,000 house worldwide providing affordable shelter for more than 1.75 million people.