ENERGY STAR is the symbol for energy efficiency, as designated by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ENERGY STAR is a voluntary government backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through energy efficiency.
By partnering with ENERGY STAR and building ENERGY STAR qualified homes, your company becomes part of a select group. You can provide your customers with the added benefit of energy efficiency, and show them how to save money on utility bills, be more comfortable, and protect the environment.
A PROVEN PARTNERSHIP
Currently there are more than 5,000 builders in the program with more than 500,000 ENERGY STAR labeled homes on the ground.
Here’s how the partnership works:
- Join ENERGY STAR by completing a Partnership Agreement (available at www.energystar.gov or from our office.)
- Fox Energy Specialists is a local energy rater that will help to ensure that your homes are designed and built to ENERGY STAR standards. Fox Energy Specialists will affix the ENERGY STAR label on each home once it has passed the final inspection.
- Use ENERGY STAR promotional materials and techniques to gain market advantage for your homes. (Additional free material and signs available from Fox Energy Specialists!)
There is NO COST to partner with ENERGY STAR or use their promotional materials!
What Makes a Home ENERGY STAR?
Homes that earn the ENERGY STAR label meet strict EPA guidelines for energy efficiency. The EPA requires that ENERGY STAR homes be at least 15% above International Energy Conservation (IECC) Code.
To qualify homes as ENERGY STAR, builders can select from a variety of energy-efficient features, such as:
- Effective Insulation
- High Performance Windows
- Tight Construction and Ductwork
- Efficient HVAC equipment
Fox Energy Specialists will review your plans, help you choose the most appropriate and cost effective features for your homes. We will also train your field personnel to build to the required standards and conduct on-site inspections and testing to verify the energy efficient measures chosen.
Why is ENERGY STAR Good for Your Customers?
- Lower Utility Costs – Compared to code built homes, homeowners can typically save $200-$400 per year in heating and cooling costs.
- More Comfortable Homes – The energy-efficient features in ENERGY STAR homes help keep out the heat, cold air, and noise.
- Better Indoor Air Quality – Tightly constructed homes can block out more dust, moisture, pollens, pests, and other pollutants, improving indoor air quality.
- Good Investments – The features and performance of ENERGY STAR homes, position them for higher resale value.
- Environmental Protection – Because ENERGY STAR homes use less energy, they help reduce pollution.
Why Do Builders Partner with ENERGY STAR?
- Recognition – The ENERGY STAR label distinguishes builders as leaders in efficient construction and environmental stewardship, providing valuable recognition and market advantage.
- Enhanced Customer Satisfaction – The energy-efficient features built into ENERGY STAR qualified homes translate into impressive value and comfort for customers.
- Increased Revenue – In addition to the built-in energy saving features, the actual savings on energy may allow buyers to afford upgrades, further increasing your income.
- Program Flexibility – Builders can choose among “tried and true” energy efficient features to meet ENERGY STAR standards. Preferred designs, layouts, or option packages do not need to change.
- Access to Support – ENERGY STAR Partners have access to technical and marketing tools at no cost. These include:
- ENERGY STAR Labels and Logos
- Point of Scale Tools
- Consumer brochures and fact sheets
- Sample advertisements
- Listing on ENERGY STAR Web Site
- Achievement awards