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Comparing Residential Energy Ratings Systems, an On Demand Webinar Presented by Brett Little, GreenHome Institute

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Posted by: Rate It Green Team


Brett little hosts this informative webinar comparing the more widely known residential energy ratings systems, along with his guest Lisa White of Phius. The two present an overview and some key elements of:

  • ASHRAE 90.1
  • The Department of Energy's Home Energy Score
  • RESNET's HERS Index
  • Passive House (PHIUS) 
  • Pearl 
  • Energy Star 


These well known programs can help provide some consistency in a landscape Brett admits can sometimes feel like the Wild West, where local weatherization professionals or an industry friend might feel free to create and provide their own rating or opinion that can only be so helpful. These programs are also more often recognized by government and utilities incentive programs.  


Topics include:
  • Basic characteristics and some unique attributes of the programs
  • How some of the outputs are estimated, generally speaking as this is an introduction and not a technical session (which they do offer)
  • How different energy programs might be appropriate for different building types
  • What modeling and/or diagnostics tests are associated with particular programs (blower door tests, ventilation testing, duct testing, hot water for plumbing efficiency), and what the various verification requirements are by program 
  • A look at the software programs that can be used for modeling, and providing program information and reporting 
  • A sense of the training required to be able to earn credentials and become a a rater ot provider to verify system requirements have been met 
  • Reporting examples for system outputs - and examples of how this information can be used to make decisions in advance, parricularly for new buildings 
 
While specific requirements vary and each program has unique characteristics, all of the programs can inform decisions and help providers and clients with lowering energy consumption and energy bills, as well as emissions, improving comfort and safety, providing access to available state and federal energy related incentives and rebates, and increasing asset value.  For work in low income housing, the use of ratings systems for verification is also typically required.  Homeowners can benefit directly and immediately, as well as in the long term when they go to sell their home.  Disclosure of home performance is now required in a small number of areas, and these requirements will likely grow in an era of  truth in lending and increased transparency.  


Also check out GreenHome Institutes: Basics of Residential Green Building and Remodeling, also on demand!


About GreenHome Institute: 

GreenHome Institute is a nonprofit organization that empowers people to make healthier and more sustainable choices in the renovation and construction of the places we live.





 
 

 

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