ENERGY STAR® Explained
What Those Blue Labels Really Mean
ENERGY STAR® is a joint program by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that promotes energy efficiency through the adoption of energy-efficient practices and products. To earn the blue and white ENERGY STAR® label, products are independently certified to ensure they meet federal requirements, meaning they’re guaranteed to be more energy efficient than comparable products. Appliances, heating and cooling systems, home electronics, lighting, new homes and commercial buildings are some of the things that can be ENERGY STAR® certified. Homes outfitted with ENERGY STAR® certified products will use about 35% less energy and save more than 8,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions per year. You can search for ENERGY STAR® products at energystar.gov/productfinder.
As for a whole-house certification, new homes must meet strict, performance-based energy efficiency requirements developed by the ENERGY STAR® Residential New Construction program. These homes boast at least 10% more efficiency than other homes built to code and achieve a 20% improvement on average. This is done through things like:
• a complete thermal enclosure system
• high-efficiency heating and cooling
• energy-efficient lighting and appliances
An Energy Rating company must work closely with the builder/ developer throughout the construction process and third party verification is required.
FEDERAL TAX CREDITS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
were extended as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021! If you make any qualifying home improvements to your primary residence during 2021, you can earn up to $500 in tax credits when filing your 2021 taxes. Qualifying items range from ENERGY STAR® products to windows, doors, roofs, insulation and air sealants. You’ll need Form 5696, visit irs.gov for details.
In the Albany & Glens Falls regions, 785 ENERGY STAR® certified new homes have been built so far this year.
Interested in building an energy efficient new home? You can search for certified builder partners at energystar.gov, or contact a Roohan Realty agent for help!
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