This new-home program puts the focus on efficiency
MINNEAPOLIS—More than 4,000 new homes in Minnesota are energy efficient, thanks to a CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy program launched last year.
The High Efficiency New Homes program is offered to utility service-area builders to help increase access to energy-efficient homes in the state. The two utilities recently recognized 13 Minnesota builders with energy-efficient new home standards awards.
Under the program, homes are built to a higher efficiency standard, exceeding the Minnesota Residential Energy Code. Each participating home is inspected and tested by a third-party professional trained in advanced building science using the Home Energy Rating System. The HERS Index is the industry standard for measuring a home’s energy efficiency. It is also the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a new home’s energy performance by a HERS rater. The bottom line: The completed homes deliver improved quality and energy savings.
“The High Efficiency New Homes program benefits homeowners through lower utility bills, less environmental impact and, ultimately, a more comfortable home,” said Ryan Setterholm, senior administrator of efficiency programs for CenterPoint Energy.
Last year, the program collectively saved 1.4 million kilowatts and 101,521 dekatherms, the equivalent of powering nearly 1,400 passenger cars for an entire year. “We are excited to raise the bar on energy-efficient new homes in Minnesota, in collaboration with homebuilders and HERS raters,” said Pam Newell, Xcel Energy program manager.
CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy partnered with ICF to deliver the program. A global consulting services company, ICF has delivered more than 70,000 energy-efficient new homes for utility programs across the nation.
The program’s goal for this year is to complete more than 3,500 high-efficiency new homes.