BOSTON – Massachusetts is helping local builders construct more energy-efficient homes.

The state Department of Energy Resources announced Friday that the U.S. Department of Energy has given the state $350,000 to help pay for a program that trains builders to use thermal imaging-enhanced building methods.

The goal is to lower the energy consumption of homes.

Massachusetts is among 24 states sharing $7 million set aside for the Building Energy Codes program.

Federal officials said the program has reduced energy use and carbon pollution and saved an estimated $16 billion for U.S. consumers since it started 20 years ago.

The training is offered at a low cost to builders and is free for municipal building code officials. It began this month and continues throughout the year.