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

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.  

• 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