An Energy Star-certified home is a type of home that is designed to be more energy efficient than standard homes. To be certified, a home must meet certain requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In this article, we’ll explore what it takes to build an Energy Star-certified home and the value of the Energy Star rating.
The definition of a Zero Energy Ready Home from the U.S. Department of Energy: “A DOE Zero Energy Ready Home is a high-performance home that is so energy efficient that a renewable energy system could offset most or all the home’s annual energy use.”
Zero Energy Ready is a certification program ran by the United States Department of Energy. A Zero Energy Ready home is designed to make a home ready for renewable energy but it does not require a renewable energy system to be installed. If the home already has a qualifying renewable energy system installed, it can qualify for this program. In this article, we’ll take a look at the value of a Zero Ready home and why it’s worth the investment.
1. Energy Efficiency
The most significant benefit of a Zero Energy Ready home is its high level of energy efficiency. The home is designed to use energy-efficient building materials, appliances, and heating and cooling systems, resulting in a significant reduction in energy consumption. With a Zero Energy Ready Home, you can expect to save up to 80% on your energy bills compared to a traditional home. In order for a home to be considered for Net Zero Ready it must first be Energy Star Certified, see article here.
2. Sustainability
Another benefit of a Zero Energy Ready home is its sustainability. The home is designed to use renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to produce the energy needed to power the home. This results in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
3. Increased Home Value
A Zero Energy Ready home is an investment in your future. When you build a Zero Energy Ready home, you’re investing in a home that will be worth more than a traditional home. The home’s energy-efficient design and sustainable features will be attractive to buyers, increasing its resale value.
4. Improved Indoor Air Quality
A Zero Energy Ready home is designed to provide excellent indoor air quality. The home’s energy-efficient design and ventilation systems help to reduce the presence of allergens, pollutants, and toxins, resulting in a healthier living environment.
5. Comfortable Living Environment
A Zero Energy Ready home is designed to provide excellent indoor air quality. The home’s energy-efficient design and ventilation systems help to reduce the presence of allergens, pollutants, and toxins, resulting in a healthier living environment.
6. Government Incentives
Building a Zero Energy Ready home may also qualify you for government incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, and grants. These incentives can help to offset the cost of building a Net Zero Ready home, making it a more affordable investment. As of February 19, 2023 current federal tax credits for Zero Energy Ready home is $5,000 ($2,500 from the required Energy Star Rating and $2,500 from Zero Energy Ready Program).
Check the latest federal tax credits information here.
Checklist from the U.S. Department of Energy
Building an Energy Star certified home requires meeting certain requirements for energy efficiency. By doing so, homeowners can enjoy significant energy savings, environmental benefits, and improved comfort. Additionally, an Energy Star certification can increase the value of a home and help to attract buyers. If you’re building a new home, consider the value of building an Energy Star certified home.
Conclusion
A Zero Energy Ready home is an investment in your future. It offers many benefits, including energy efficiency, sustainability, increased home value, improved indoor air quality, a comfortable living environment, and government incentives. If you’re looking for a sustainable and energy-efficient living option, a Zero Energy Ready home is definitely worth the investment.
