Understanding the Energy Efficiency Industry
Home Efficiency 101
Here at Ekotrope we realize not everyone is as involved in the home efficiency rating as we are. For those who are new to the industry, we want to catch you up to speed. This post is a beginners guide to all things HERS ratings and where Ekotrope falls into the mix. Not sure what a HERS rating is to begin with? You came to the right place.
What is a HERS Score?
HERS stands for Home Energy Rating System. A HERS Score (or rating) is an all around evaluation of a home’s energy efficiency. Like golf, the lower the score - the better. This scale is known as the Residential Energy Services Network Home Energy Rating System index, or put more simply: RESNET HERS index. It is the industry standard for measuring energy efficiency in new and existing homes. Using Ekotrope, certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct in person, virtual or remote inspections of homes, gathering data which results in the HERS score. Homes with low HERS ratings have lower energy bills, retain more heat in the winter, stay cooler in the summer, have less of a carbon footprint and are eligible for a number of incentives and rebate benefits while having a higher resale value.
HERS Rater
HERS raters are professionals who are certified by RESNET Accredited Rating Providers. Their job is to visit homes to perform the tests and inspections necessary to obtain a HERS rating. HERS raters must pass a rigorous training program with both online exams and in person tests.
HERS Provider
Providers are responsible for the quality assurance of home ratings. In addition they are responsible for administering rating programs such as rater certification, selection of accredited rating software and the marketing of rating services. All Providers must be accredited by RESNET
Energy Efficiency Program
Energy efficiency policies and programs can help drive the implementation of projects that minimize or reduce energy use during the operation of a system or machine and/or production of a good or service. Resources related to different types of energy efficiency policies and programs are available below.
Where Ekotrope Fits
When analyzing homes to produce a HERS rating, Raters use home energy rating software. In this software, Raters build a digital model of the home including the location, size and shape of the home as well as the materials and equipment used that impact energy use. Using this information, the software simulates how much energy the home will consume in a typical year, calculates the HERS index and determines if the home meets energy code and other energy performance programs like ENERGY STAR. Ekotrope develops and supports the most widely used home energy rating software in the USA.