ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy designed to help consumers save money, and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices.
In 1992, the (EPA) introduced ENERGY STAR as a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Computers and monitors were the first labeled products. By 1995, the EPA had expanded the label to residential heating and cooling equipment. The ENERGY STAR label is now on major appliances, lighting, home electronics, and has been expanded to cover new homes and commercial and industrial buildings.
Whole Home ENERGY STAR Rating
For an entire home to be labeled ENERGY STAR, it must be built by an ENERGY STAR builder-partner to meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.
The ENERGY STAR label is rapidly becoming more of a selling feature. Home buyers are now very conscious of a potential home’s energy efficiency. The Multiple Listing Service has specific sections where ENERGY STAR rated systems and appliances can be highlighted so that buyers can easily determine if there is ENERGY STAR rated equipment in the home they are considering. However, as the whole-house Energy Star rating is fairly new, it doesn’t yet appear often. As more and more homes get the designation, you will see it more often and consumers will look for the whole home rating.
The ‘No Cost Energy Assessment’ & Benefits
Locally, the ENERGY STAR program is partnered with a program called Mass Save. This initiative is sponsored by several local energy companies and administered by a company called Conservation Services Group. Through Mass Save you can schedule a no-cost “Energy Assessment” on your home or even your rental property. Depending on the results, homeowners are then eligible for an instant rebate of up to $2,000 for 75% of the cost of installing insulation, and a zero percent interest loan on new heating equipment. The website also contains a wealth of information on saving energy as well as information like current tax credits available for energy efficient home improvements.
As energy costs continue to rise, taking advantage of the Mass Save program, and looking for ENERGY STAR rated appliances will not only benefit you in the short term, but add value to your home when it comes time to sell.
Resources: www.masssave.com, www.energystar.gov
{ 1 comment }
