New System Rates Home Energy Efficiency
A technician from Earth Advantage Institute completes a duct test as part of the Energy Performance Score audit for a new home. Photo: Earth Advantage Institute
Similar to the miles per gallon rating for cars, a group in Oregon has created Energy Performance Score to allow home buyers a way of measuring the energy efficiency of their new house.
For all participating homes, both the energy usage and carbon emissions are calculated from electricity and natural gas consumed. Other factors taken into account include insulation, appliances and the regional weather.
In all, the audit collects and analyzes 32 data points. These numbers are then compared with the state average, and potential upgrades are presented for how to improve the score.
When multiple houses are scored, it allows buyers to evaluate how much they can expect to spend on energy at a given house.
The program was developed by Earth Advantage Institute and is already in effect for new homes in Oregon, through the support of Energy Trust of Oregon, on a volunteer basis.
Seattle also used it for a pilot program, with findings released in August 2009, and other cities, including Chicago and Houston, are looking at the initiative as well.
The EPS is also being marketed to those that aren’t selling a home, as it sets a baseline for expected performance.
You can compare the EPS to your monthly utility bills and find out if your average usage is higher or lower than the expected energy use for your home.
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As of June 17th 2011 we have upgraded our comment system to use Facebook comments. The below comments are closed and are listed for historical purposes.
Jay
posted on March 8th, 2010 at 7:22 am
I sure hope that Oregon considers window tints to effective reduce their energy consumption and to get favorable results on their Energy Performance Score. Green oriented sites such as http://www.TintBuyer.com are also doing their share in helping others in pursuing green living. They educate people on how window tints can be labeled as one of the most effective ways to conserve energy consumption, in our home, office or car, it is a practical way to save money from energy bills while caring for the environment. Window tints are cost-effective, energy-efficient and definitely eco-friendly.
Green Energy-In Reach of Everyone | Live In The Green
posted on March 8th, 2010 at 12:10 pm
[...] New System Rates Home Energy Efficiency – Earth911.com [...]
Sharath
posted on March 8th, 2010 at 2:38 pm
On a related note, http://www.energysavvy.com, a newly launched site, offers a home energy calculation feature as well. Homeowners can measure their home’s efficiency, see all applicable state and government rebates and incentives, and even choose from a list of local, pre-screened energy contractors. It is a one stop shop for homeowners looking to make their homes more efficient and environmentally friendly
New Oregon Energy Rating System Assess Home Efficiency | EarthTechling
posted on March 8th, 2010 at 4:23 pm
[...] to Earth911, the EPS system uses a 32 point audit that analyzes the energy efficiency of participating homes [...]
Energy saving solutions for your home | Energy Efficient Homes
posted on March 12th, 2010 at 4:43 am
[...] New System Rates Home Energy Efficiency – Earth911.com [...]
Sharani
posted on May 1st, 2010 at 3:54 am
To be able to inform most, if not all, people regarding the energy conservation awareness I think the key is right information straight from the experts. One of the most effective way to reduce energy consumption is with the use of window tints. While most window films are for reducing solar heat gain in the summer, low-e films both block summer heat and improve winter heat retention. Trusted tint professional at http://www.TintBuyer.com provides unbiased fact on types window tints that suit your needs. They provide relevant information about window tints such as its benefits, quotations, laws involve in every state and will help you find the best professional tinter near your area.