The importance of sustainability and energy efficiency in the new construction home market isn’t going away. In fact, many builders are choosing to obtain certifications that attest to the environmental performance of their homes — both to prove their commitment to sustainability and to appeal to eco-friendly homebuyers.
Two such certifications are Energy Star and the National Green Building Standard (NGBS). But which certification is the best choice for you? Our team at TSI Energy Solutions has experience in both. Here’s what you need to know about these two certifications to help you make a more informed decision about your projects.
What is Energy Star certification?
Energy Star is a certification program administered by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that focuses on energy efficiency in homes. To get Energy Star certified, a home must meet certain energy efficiency standards that the EPA sets.
These standards are based on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) index, which measures the home’s energy efficiency and assigns a score based on factors like:
- Air sealing
- Insulation
- HVAC efficiency
The benefits of Energy Star certification
Energy Star certification is a clear way to show potential buyers that your homes are energy efficient.
- Energy Star certified homes are 10-20% more energy efficient than standard homes, resulting in lower energy bills for homeowners.
- Energy Star certified homes have a smaller environmental impact due to their reduced energy consumption.
- Energy Star certification can add value to a home, as it indicates to buyers that the home is energy efficient and sustainable.
What is NGBS Green certification?
The NGBS Green certification is a certification program administered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) that focuses on sustainability and energy efficiency. To obtain NGBS Green certification, a home must meet certain energy efficiency standards as well as criteria for sustainability in water efficiency, indoor air quality, and materials selection.
The certification has four levels, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Emerald, with each level representing a higher degree of sustainability.
The benefits of NGBS Green certification
NGBS Green certification is a comprehensive evaluation of a home’s energy efficiency and sustainability.
- NGBS Green certified homes are sustainable and energy-efficient, resulting in lower energy bills and a reduced environmental impact.
- NGBS Green certification covers a wide range of sustainability aspects, including water efficiency and indoor air quality.
- NGBS Green certification can add value to a home, as it indicates to buyers that the home is sustainable and energy-efficient.
The bottom line
When it comes down to it, both Energy Star and NGBS Green certification offer significant benefits to homebuilders. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and the type of homebuyers you’re marketing to.
Energy Star certification is a good choice for builders who want to focus primarily on energy efficiency, while NGBS Green certification is a good choice for builders who want to showcase a more comprehensive approach to sustainability. Whatever the choice, obtaining either certification demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, and can add value to a home in the eyes of your potential buyers.
Get the right energy certification for your new construction homes with TSI Energy Solutions. Contact us to learn about your options today.