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If you are like many home buyers today, energy efficiency is an important concern when you’re looking for a new home plan. In fact, a recent survey1 found that more than 85 percent of Americans planning to build or buy a home within the next two years would choose one home over another based on energy efficiency. By choosing a home designed with energy efficiency in mind, you can help ensure that you will be more comfortable, have lower utility bills, and protect the environment.

Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR

How are home plans Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR?

Home plans that are Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR incorporate energy-efficient details and specifications to meet the rigorous ENERGY STAR for New Homes guidelines set by EPA. Click here for details about the features of an ENERGY STAR qualified new home that will be specified on the home plans.

To qualify, a plan is independently reviewed and verified to include energy-saving features and construction practices that will result in a home that is 20–30 percent more energy efficient than a standard home. A home built according to a Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR home plan must also meet EPA field verification requirements to earn the ENERGY STAR qualified home label. You’ll need to make sure your builder follows the home plan’s ENERGY STAR construction specifications and works with a Home Energy Rater, who will conduct the onsite inspection and testing to verify that your home qualifies for the ENERGY STAR.

What are the benefits of choosing a Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR home plan?

1 Energy Pulse 2006: Where America Stands on Electric Utilities, Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency and Conservation. The Shelton Group, 2007.