Designed to Earn ENERGY STAR® program

ENERGY STAR has developed a program available for Architects where plans can be pre-qualified by a HERS Rater and labeled as Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR.

Benefits:

  • Most consumers already recognize and trust the ENERGY STAR label that can give prospective clients added confidence that their new home will truly be energy efficient when it is built. (On Site testing & verification is still needed for the home to get the ENERGY STAR label)
  • This can give your builders a leg up if they pursuing other programs like Building America Challenge, EarthCraft, LEED, or numerous other green certifications, as most of these programs are based off ENERGY STAR.
  • The energy-efficient features specified in Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR home plans can translate into increased comfort and satisfaction for homeowners. This in turn can lead to more referrals from customers who have bought and built from your plans.
  • If you design plans for a sub division, or even sell them nationwide -once the first one is approved (based on climate zone) they all are approved unless certain changes are made.
  • While everyone talks about “Green Buildings” or “Green Designs” you will actually have a third party verified stamp on the plans proving that your house design is energy efficient. Once the house has been built and inspected, you and the customer can have confidence that it was done properly.
  • Increased Marketing: Once your first set of plans has been approved, you will then be able to market yourself and be listed as an ENERGY STAR Partner.
  • A chance to be recognized by your peers during the AIA National Convention if you compete in the ENERGY STAR challenge.

The Process:

  • For those new to the process you would first find a Certified HERS rater and then register with ENERGY STAR for the program.
  • At this time, you will receive and should review the Plan Review Checklist.
  • We will sit down with you to review the plans, entering all the appropriate information, make suggestions as required & complete the required paperwork. The earlier we are involved (especially with the first two or three) the less time it will take to make any needed changes to the specifications.
  • Once all the T’s are crossed and the I’s are dotted the plans are officially labeled & you can market them.