DOE Efficient New Home at a Glance
- New single family and multifamily residential buildings (up to 5 stories) are eligible for certification.
- The DOE Efficient New Home certification requires earning ENERGY STAR and EPA Indoor airPLUS certifications as prerequisites.
- The energy efficiency certification also focuses on durability and occupant well-being.
DOE Efficient New Home Certification
The Department of Energy defines a DOE Efficient New Home as "a high- performance home which is so energy efficient that a renewable energy system can offset all or most of its annual energy consumption."
The DOE Efficient New Home program builds upon existing requirements and verification infrastructure of energy code (IECC) and the EPA's ENERGY STAR and Indoor airPLUS certification programs. DOE Efficient New Home takes high-performance housing to the next level and requires:
- Higher level of energy efficiency than ENERGY STAR
- Compliance with indoor air quality standards
- Increased water efficiency
- Preparations for solar energy system (if applicable)
Steps to Achieving DOE Efficient New Home
- Perform energy modeling during early design to determine materials and equipment needed to achieve the energy efficiency target
- Include all mandatory requirements in design
- Inspect and verify DOE Efficient New Home requirements throughout the construction process
- Process certification
Benefits of DOE Efficient New Home Certification
Reduce energy usage and
utility bills
Improve indoor comfort and health for occupants
Minimize environmental impact and carbon footprint
Achieve local and utility company rebates
Earn 45L federal tax credits
up to $5,000 per unit
Qualify for preferential loan financing for multifamily buildings
How ReVireo Can Help
ReVireo, as a DOE Efficient New Home Verifier, performs the necessary energy modeling, testing, and third-party verification to qualify buildings for DOE Efficient New Home certification.