RESNET’s By-Laws have not been updated since they were adopted in 2001.  They are currently out of compliance with State regulations and non-profit organization governance procedures.

The RESNET Board of Directors is proposing amended RESNET By-Laws that requires approval by RESNET members.

The proposed amended By-Laws were developed with the input of the Strategic Positioning Task Force created by the RESNET Board.  It has been vetted by RESNET’s General Counsel who specializes in non-profit organizations and a major international law firm that specializes in corporate governance.

RESNET members will be asked to approve the proposed By-Laws by an online vote.  On February 13, 2012 RESNET members will be sent a link to cast their ballot on this important issue.

It is important to the future of RESNET that you vote in the By-Laws election.

RESNET has posted a resource web page that includes the proposed new By-Laws at 2012 RESNET By-Laws Vote

RESNET will post developments and changes to the conference schedule on Twitter. Stay in touch with #RESNET2012 at twitter.com/resnetus

The Energy Conservation Institute (ECI), in partnership with Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC), invites you to stop by for a tour of NWACC’s new mobile training unit.  ECI’s custom built labs provide students with a hands-on learning environment that closely resembles traditional site visits. Demos of blower doors, duct testers, combustion analyzers, thermal imagers and other equipment will be available during the conference.  The Lab is located outside of the Plaza Lobby and will have demos each day from 7:30-8:30 a.m. & Noon-3:30 p.m.

CertainTeed will provide a hands-on workshops on the proper installation of insulation.

The workshop will take place on Tuesday, February 28 from 10:30 a.m. to Noon and be repeated again on Tuesday from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.  It will take place outside the hotel’s Plaza Foyer.  The workshop will cover:

• The Value & Benefit of the Hybrid Wall
• The Benefits of Air Sealing
• The Variance and Benefits of Open & Closed Foam Insulation
• The Benefit of using Forticel and the “4” levels of protection.

EnergyLogic’s RESNET Rater Field Training:
There is nothing like spending time in the field with an experienced trainer to cement your classroom knowledge and prepare you for the “real” world of the energy rater. One distinguishing feature of our trainers is that they have all worked as raters in the field, honing their craft. Every EnergyLogic instructor has personally rated hundreds of homes. We’re also fanatically dedicated to quality and passionate about the industry. If you’re serious about being a rater, you’ve come to the right place!

To learn more visit us at: http://energylogicacademy.com/course-descriptions/professional-certifications/hers-rater/ or call: 970-556-7194

This post was submitted by Eve .

SketchUp is a powerful free graphic modeling tool offered by Google. EnergyLogic has successfully adopted SketchUp to streamline the from-plans rating take-off process for our clients. It has proven to be a strong tool when reviewing probationary ratings and performing quality assurance. This training is designed to familiarize you with SketchUp tool and provide you with practice designing a model using the tool. Then we will use the scripts developed by EnergyLogic to generate a report designed for easy input into REM/Rate. Using SketchUp will improve your speed and accuracy in performing take-offs.

To learn more please visit us at:
http://energylogicacademy.com/course-descriptions/professional-development/sketchup-training/

This post was submitted by Eve .

EnergyLogic is proud to announce a major evolution in the training of BPI Building Analysts. While online training isn’t new, EnergyLogic has approached the challenge of training students for success and competence with a much more comprehensive approach than has been taken in the past. Students will work through the EnergyLogic online system prior to attending live field training with our staff of highly trained, experienced and dedicated instructors.

For more info please visit us at:
http://energylogicacademy.com/course-descriptions/professional-certifications/bpi-building-analyst/or call: 970-556-7194

This post was submitted by Eve .

Downtown Austin, Texas is renowned for its music scene and fine dining.  A special fun feature of the 2012 RESNET Conference is a shuttle service from the conference hotel to downtown Austin.

On Tuesday, February 28 from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. there will be a free bus shuttle to and from the conference hotel for 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.

Don’t miss the fun, join RESNET and kick up your heels in Austin’s city limits.

To view the Austin music attractions click on http://www.austintexas.org/musicians/music_attractions/

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a “not-to-miss event”  To register for the conference click on 2012 RESNET Conference Registration

The two-part LEED for Homes Green Rater Training is designed to prepare qualified participants to provide verification services on LEED for Homes projects. To find out more, please visit us at:
http://energylogicacademy.com/course-descriptions/programs/leed-for-homes-green-rater/or call: 970-556-7194

This post was submitted by Eve .

THe BER is proud to announce a HERS Rater Training to be conducted in conjunction with the NEHERS Alliance.
Where: Springfield, Mass
When: March 5th – 10th

For more details or to register please go to this link:
http://www.energyratings.org/calendar/event.aspx?EventID=66
We look forward to seeing you there!

This post was submitted by Jason Belmont.

The building science community has lost a pioneer building scientist and leader in our industry with the passing of Dr. Subrato Chandra from surgery complications.

Subrato long championed the home energy rating industry and was a good friend of RESNET.  We will all miss his dedication and sense of humor.

The following is a statement from M.J. Soileau of the University of Central Florida’s Office of Research and Commercialiation:

Subrato Chandra, Ph.D., retired project manager for the Building America Industrialized Housing Partnership (BAIHP) and one of the pioneers of The building research division of the Florida Solar Energy Center, died January 12 following complications from surgery.

Subrato, who worked for FSEC for 34 years before retiring in 2010, was passionate about integrating energy efficiency into home design and, long before most people had ever heard the term photovoltaics, helped develop the concept of a PV powered house in Cape Canaveral in 1979.

One of his proudest achievements was highlighted in an email he recently sent a colleague in which several FSEC initiatives were touched upon in a listing of the most transformative homebuilding trends in the last 75 years.

Subrato’s compassion can be seen in the types of projects he championed:   As director of FSEC’s research and development division in 1995 he helped the Environmental Protection Agency launch the Energy Star Homes project that has become the most widely accepted energy-efficient green homes projects in the country.  The Building America project he led still works directly with Habitat for Humanity home builders throughout the country to help make housing more affordable for needy families and helps make manufactured or HUD-code homes more efficient.

Subrato led FSEC’s first major funded project in the buildings area with a $400,000 contract on passive cooling by natural ventilation received in 1981 from the Department of Energy.  During his career at UCF he was involved in $14 million of funded projects. In addition to his work at FSEC Subrato served as a faculty member in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Construction Engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Subrato was able to succeed because he always championed the personal relationship over the pure technical work. He communicated equally well with a housing subcontractor and a renowned scientist. And in so doing he was able to have a number of happy employees and help funding agencies achieve their goals. His loss will be felt nationwide in the building research community.

“He was a great teacher, a respected scientist, and a classy gentleman, ” said Craig V. Muccio, a colleague from Florida Power and Light who first met Subrato in a solar engineering class Subrato was teaching in 1980.

Most recently Subrato was working with the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory as a senior buildings engineer.

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer half day HERS 101 Training.

Many individuals attend the RESNET Conference to determine whether they will enter the rating industry. Many of the sessions offered in past conferences are a bit too high in jargon and assumed knowledge for persons just entering the rating industry. This session will introduce a beginner to the rating industry and provide a context for the other more advanced sessions to be offered at the conference.

The training will be offered by Abe Kruger, Kruger Sustainability Group.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees. To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

Pre-registration is required through the RESNET Conference Registration System.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer half day REM/Rate Training.

This session will teach basic and advanced features of the REM/Rate software. Data input, reporting, analysis, exporting, importing as well as little known features will be covered.

The training will be offered by Rob Salcido and Brian Christensen, Architectural Energy Corporation.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees. To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

Pre-registration is required through the RESNET Conference Registration System.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer half day WaterSense Provider Training.

WaterSense, a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has recently released its Single-Family New Home Specification. To earn the WaterSense label, builders must have their homes inspected and certified to meet EPA’s specification criteria by an EPA licensed certification provider. EPA is teaming up with RESNET to provide WaterSense labeled new home inspection and certification training for potential licensed certification providers. This training is a requirement for QA personnel from organizations interested in certifying new homes for the WaterSense program. Have your QA personnel attend this training to learn about the WaterSense new homes program, including the inspection and certification process; satisfy the training requirement, which is the first step in EPA’s approval and licensing process; and find out how simple it is for your organization to add WaterSense new home certification services to your portfolio. *Please note this session is only for individuals that want to become WaterSense Providers.

The training will be offered by Matt Stevens, Green Zone Homes.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees. To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training. E-mail matt@greenzonehome.com for information.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer half day Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance Inspector Training.

HERS Raters, in good standing with RESNET, have been offered the opportunity to become Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) Accredited Independent Building Envelope Inspectors. SPFA is waiving the enrollment fee and training class cost for this program because of the relationship which SPFA and RESNET have forged and made official in a recent MOU (Method of Understanding). SPFA is looking for individuals with inspection, energy, and insulation knowledge to shorten the learning curve on performing SPF inspections and help us meet SPF industry needs. The role of an Accredited SPFA Independent BE Inspector is to check the work of SPF Applicators to ensure that they do work which meets both Project Specifications and Manufacturer’s Installation Requirements. Three field inspections must be done for each applicator looking to receive SPFA Accreditation and there is currently a shortage of inspectors. To qualify, a HERS Rater must also attend the course and pass the test for Fundamentals of Spray Polyurethane Foam for the Independent Building Envelope Inspector. This course is complimentary to HERS Raters, and RESNET membership status will be verified. Enrollment forms will be available for each person who takes the course. In addition, HERS Raters would need to submit three references of builders for whom they have conducted inspections as well as a resume or job history to complete all SPFA requirements.

The training will be offered by Roger Morrison, Deer Ridge Consulting, Inc.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees. To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

Pre-registration is required through the RESNET Conference registration system

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of Thermal Imaging Training.

Are you an Energy Auditor or Home Inspector looking to expand into the Thermal Imaging Business? Join United Infrared for a two day class which will help you incorporate Thermal Imaging into your business and help you know how to inspect the building envelope of a home via infrared technology. As part of the course, we will be doing hands on training at a home and performing blower door testing as part of our survey. Join us Feb 25-26th in Austin, TX. To see more about the course offering, please view: www.energyscanir.com/training

The training will be conducted offsite at the Courtyard Marriott Austin.

The training will be offered by energyscanir.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees. To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training. To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference Thermal Imaging Training, select EnergyScanIR module and at checkout screen use coupon code: resnet2012 .

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

RESNET and its strategic allies have been working hard on the introduction of legislation in Congress that will finance improved home energy performance. These efforts have been successful on the introduction of bills that create tax federal performance based tax credits, on-bill financing for rural electric cooperatives and modify mortgage financing and appraisals to account for improve energy performance. The conference will offer a series of sessions that will explain the initiatives and how the building performance can be effective in making its voice heard in getting the legislation moved. The sessions are:

The SAVE Act – Mainstreaming Building Performance into the Mortgage and Appraisal Industry – Presenters: Robert Sahadi, IMT and Ken Gear, Leading Builders of America

A broad coalition of home builders, environmental and energy groups and RESNET is advocating for the proposed legislation the “Sensible Accounting to Value Energy Act (SAVE Act). The legislation would modify the guidelines for mortgage underwriting by allowing for a value-added adjustment based on a home’s energy features. This session will introduce the provisions of the SAVE Act and explore the implications to the builders and the building performance industry.

Energy Improvement On Bill Financing for Rural Electric Cooperatives – A Time That Has Come – Presenter: Brian Cavey, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

There has been legislation introduced in Congress that would have the U.S. Department of Agriculture provide no interest financing to rural electric cooperatives to provide low interest financing of energy improvements to member homes which would be repaid through the electric bill. The legislation would require an pre and post energy audit by a certified professional. This session would introduce the legislation and explore the implications to the building performance industry and how members of industry can become involved in advocating passage of the legislation

What’s Going On – Legislation to Provide Financing for Improving Building Energy Performance – Presenter: Carl Chidlow, Cardenas Partners

This session will explore the bills aimed at giving consumers access to affordable financing and will discuss how the building performance industry can make its voice heard in Congress on these key issues.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

As part of the strategic alliance between RESNET and Energy and Environmental Alliance (EEBA) the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will be offering a series of sessions focusing on technical issues and marketing energy efficiency to consumers. The sessions will be presented by Gord Cooke of Building Knowledge. The EEBA track includes:

Train the Trainer Sales Session – Learn the Skills to Help Your Builder Sell ENERGY STAR to Homebuyers – The goal of this session is to empower you to help new home builders sell the value propositions the energy efficiency programs you deliver offer. This session has been adapted specifically for raters from the EEBA Houses That Work Sales Training session, delivered directly to new home sales agents. In this session you will develop a sales training plan outline that you can use to engage sales managers and the sales staff of new home builders to ensure more frequent opportunities for education sessions that will build commitment, enthusiasm and greater consistency in the message. The session will include identification of the 3 most common sales processes used by new home sales agents and how you can help them integrate the energy efficiency message into each one. Come learn the top 4 questions you should be asking each of your builders and the top 3 questions new home sales should be asking when speaking with homebuyers to ensure the success of the services and programs you offer. The presenter for this session has helped hundreds of new home sales agents effectively integrate energy efficiency messages into their sales process.

Introduction to High Performance Homes and IAQ – The Implications of the EPA Indoor Plus Program – This session will teach participants essential information about indoor air quality as it applies to high performance homes. You will learn the four important strategies for controlling and improving indoor air quality. The session is based on the popular EEBA Houses That Work Indoor Air Quality program that was developed to highlight the key elements of EPA’s Indoor airPLUS air quality home-labeling program and how it relates to Version 3 of the ENERGY STAR for New Homes program. This knowledge will empower raters to sort through the quagmire of IAQ information that is currently available to help their builders and homeowners make better decisions.

Advancing the IAQ Conversation – Cost-effective Solutions – This session will build on the information presented in the IAQ Introductory session to focus on the practical and affordable tools and strategies they can use to help their clients make better decisions and to incorporate healthy indoor initiatives into their building projects. Participants will leave the session equipped to avoid potential risks and identify new opportunities for building and remodeling homes to simultaneously improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. The session will include advice on how to market and sell air quality services from the presenter who has done hundreds of effective and profitable indoor air quality investigations.

Mechanical Ventilation – The Right Options for the Right Climate Zone to Optimize ENERGY STAR V3 – Wondering what’s the best ventilation system – exhaust only, fresh air duct into air handler, ERV or HRV for your builders? Want to really understand when to use an HRV or ERV? This session presenter has been designing ventilation systems for over 25 years and can provide the practical advice you need to help your builders and homeowners make the right choice. This session will highlight the essential elements of ventilation systems for high performance homes. Based on the EEBA Houses That Work Ventilation session that has been delivered to hundreds of builders and HVAC contractors across the country, raters attending this session will be better able to help builders and homeowners make better decisions. A full discussion of appropriate and cost-effective ventilation systems for each climate zone will be outlined to prepare raters for ENERGY STAR, LEED for Homes, NAHB Green now and in the future.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference offers an unique training on key areas involving building science, program delivery and energy code compliance.

The 2012 RESNET Conference core conference session list is now posted online. Click here to access the complete listing of conference sessions.

This year’s conference sessions include:

90 Break Out Sessions

The breakout sessions will feature a wide variety of topics addressing the hottest issues for the building performance industry. Sessions will be divided into the following topics:

• Business Development/Marketing
• Technical
• Ratings/Audits
• Programs/Incentives
• ENERGY STAR® Homes

Special Builders Track

This track will include sessions on using the HERS Index as a marketing tool, the need for a national home energy performance label, marketing energy efficiency to homeowners and a roundtable of builder success stories.

In these tough economic times RESNET rater and Energy Smart Contractor members needs all of the marketing tools they can to grow their businesses. A key to this goal is generating leads to find prospective customers. RESNET has worked with GreenOhm to offer such a service. This service is an optional tool for RESNET members. It is not required and its costs are not covered by the RESNET membership and listing fees.
OPPORTUNITY

All RESNET raters and contractor members will be able to take advantage of a new program, the GreenOhm Prospect Generator and Rebate and Incentive Finder. The new tools will allow you to generate significant new leads through a web and mobile application accessible through the RESNET web portal while keeping the rater and contractor completely up-to-date on all rebate and incentive programs.
ADVANTAGES

Sell faster, easier and directly to houses in your sales and expertise sweet spot

Through the GreenOhm system, raters and contractors can generate leads that directly target those houses in your market that are most likely to engage in energy audits and home energy retrofit projects.

Access complete real-time and up-to-date rebate and incentive database

Leverage local rebates and incentives on all energy efficient products, services and retrofit upgrades offered through utility companies, municipalities, counties, state and federal programs to lower the cost of your projects or upsell customers.

Generate targeted marketing, advertising and direct sales campaigns

Generate prospects that contain address, home owner name, phone number (if not on the do-not-call list) and email address based on criteria that are important to you, such as house size, age, date last sold, household members, estimated income and available rebates and incentives. Stop wasting time and money on campaigns that are targeting houses outside of your sweet spot.
SCREENSHOTS OF THE SYSTEM

Create and generate house address level leads using criteria that are important to you, including:

• House size
• House age
• Date last sold
• Number of family members
• Estimated income
• Available rebates and incentives

View, export and continually access house address-level leads, with the following benefits:

• Create super-targeted direct mailing pieces
• Export house information to maps
• Print off lead sheets with detailed house and owner information to have at your finger tips

Plot leads on a map, with the following benefits:

• Optimize out-of-the-office sales travel time
• Create optimal sales territories

Stay in-tune with real time rebate and incentives, with the following benefits:

• Access to the most current and up-to-date energy efficiency incentives database in the market
• Search for rebates and incentives within up to 50 miles of territory
• Access to actual rebate and incentive forms to email and/or print for customers

Click here view the Introduction to GreenOhm Webinar

On January 1, 2012 fundamental changes has taken place with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes Program. Version 3 of the program requires a whole new set of requirements that builders must meet and a new set of checklists that home energy raters must complete. EPA will be present a series of sessions that will provide a first hand opportunity to get abreast of the new requirements. Sessions will include:

• ENERGY STAR in 2012: the Team, the Spec, and the Value Proposition – ENERGY STAR Track Session – Presenters: Dean Gamble and Jon Passe, EPA, ENERGY STAR for Homes Team
• Home Energy Rater Essentials for Version 3 – ENERGY STAR Track Session – Presenters: Jennifer James and Jake Titus, ICF International

Builders need – and expect – a lot more from Home Energy Raters under Version 3. Successful Raters effectively sell the value of the ENERGY STAR program and help their builders get up to speed smoothly. This session for new and prospective Raters will focus on the basics of Version 3: what the guidelines cover, how they help builders be more competitive, and how new builders can get started. Raters will leave this session better able to explain the guidelines and help new builder join ENERGY STAR and build qualified homes.

ENERGY STAR Version 3 Builder Leaders Panel Discussion – Panelists: Jacob Atalla, KB Home; Kreg Connor, Centex-Pulte, Central Texas; CR Herro, Meritage Homes; Travis Pate, Texas Classic Homes; Bill Stegall/Keith Anderson, NVR

Many builders have made a public commitment to qualifying their homes under Version 3. This session, facilitated by EPA, will feature several builders who have committed to ENERGY STAR in 2012. Presenters will discuss their rationale for staying with the program and how they successfully transitioned to the new ENERGY STAR guidelines.

Getting the Home Envelope Right: The ENERGY STAR Thermal Enclosure and Water Management Checklists – Presenters: Rick Gazica and Charlie Haack, ICF International

This session from EPA will highlight the most intricate details within the Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist as well as the Water Management System Builder Checklist. Builders and Raters who are already familiar with the Checklists will better understand the value of these specific requirements as well as options for complying with them.

Marketing to Homebuyers: Capitalizing on the Compelling New ENERGY STAR Value Proposition – Jonathan Passe and Brian Ng, EPA ENERGY STAR for Homes Team

By building homes to the new ENERGY STAR Version 3 requirements, builders have a more compelling message to share with consumers than ever before. Learn how EPA is integrating these messages into new and improved marketing materials that builders can use with prospective homebuyers. This session will review ENERGY STAR’s consumer messaging platform, explain how it was developed, and showcase some of the new collateral pieces available for ENERGY STAR partners in 2012.

Critical Details in the HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist –Presenters: Dean Gamble EPA, ENERGY STAR for Homes Team and Steve Saunders, Tempo Air

This session from EPA is designed for Raters and builders who are already familiar with the Checklist requirements. The session will not provide an overview of all requirements, but will instead focus on specific details that have triggered significant feedback and questions from partners. Attendees will leave this session with a clearer understanding of the intent and value of each detail and be better prepared to address misconceptions and mistakes that they may encounter in the field.

Case Studies in Coordination: ENERGY STAR Partners and HVAC Contractors Working Together to Ensure Success – Panelists: Greg Cobb, Sonoran Air, Inc.; Mike Mancini, Meritage Homes; and Daran Wastchak, DR Wastchak

The new ENERGY STAR program requirements mean that builders, raters, and HVAC contractors need to work together throughout the construction process. This panel presentation will highlight the experiences and perspectives of ENERGY STAR partners who have teamed up with their HVAC contractors to ensure a successful experience building ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes.

ESv3 from a Raters Perspective – Presenter: Robby Schwarz, EnergyLogic

We have moved through the transition period and have a few months under our belts under the full requirements of the ESv3 program. What went well or is going well? What problems are we seeing? How many Builders actually continued with the program and what are they saying on both sides of the equation. What ideas are there for maintaining and growing the market? Does linking with Energy Star still make sense for your company?

ENERGY STAR for Multi-Family High Rise Buildings – Presenter: Gayathri Vijayakumar, Steven Winter Associates

EPA recently finalized guidelines and processes for multi-family high rise buildings to earn the ENERGY STAR. Learn about how you can participate as a Rater and hear case studies about some of the buildings that were qualified in the pilot phase of the program.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

The RESNET Board of Directors will be holding its annual Board Meeting in conjunction with the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference on Sunday, February 26, 2012 from 8:30 a.m. to Noon in the Glass Oaks Room of the Renaissance Austin Hotel.

RESNET members and other interested parties are invited to attend the RESNET Board meeting.

The preliminary agenda for the meeting includes:

• Call to Order
• Roll Call
• Approval of
• Approval of October 10 & 11, 2011 Board Meeting
• Presentation of 2011 RESNET Financial Compilation
• Report of RESNET Board Officers Nomination Committee
• Election of 2012 RESNET Board
• Statement from New Board President
• Report on 2012 Work Plan of RESNET Training & Education
• Report on 2012 Work Plan of RESNET Technical
• Report on 2012 Work Plan of RESNET Quality Assurance Committee
• Report of the RESNET Accreditation Committee
• Report on 2012 Work Plan of COMNET
• Status of By-Laws Amendment Vote
• EPA Update (Jonathan Passe, EPA)
• National Homebuilder Report (Jacob Atalla, KB Home)
• ACCA Update (Wes Davis, ACCA)
• Washington Report
• Efficiency First Update (Jay Murdoch, Efficiency First)
• BPI Update (Larry Zarker, BPI)
• Report of 2013 RESNET Conference
• HERS Index Branding Initiative (David Kaiserman, Chairman of RESNET Housing Industry Advisory)

Fort Mitchell, Kentucky based production builder Drees Homes has entered into an agreement with the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to provide new home buyers an important measurement of long-term energy performance of each new home the company builds.  The intent of the agreement is to raise consumers’ knowledge of new home energy performance by using RESNET’s HERS Index.  Use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by Drees Homes from other homes for sale in the markets of Cincinnati, Dayton, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Nashville, Raleigh, Frederick, M.D., Washington D.C., Jacksonville, Austin and Dallas.

Drees Homes is one of the largest home builders in the U.S.  Drees Homes builds homes in Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, DC and West Virginia.  The company is the 22nd largest homebuilder in the U.S.  The builder was named as the 2008 America’s Best Builder by Builder Magazine.  For more information on Drees Homes visit their web site at www.dreeshomes.com/about_us.xml

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on HERS Index

XXX of Drees Homes, said RESNET’s HERS provides a quantitative measure of energy efficiency and permits comparisons between homes.   “It is expected that Drees’ agreement with RESNET will serve as a model to other local and regional builders that would have positive outcomes for consumers and the new home industry,”

Steve Baden, executive director of RESNET lauded Drees Homes’ leadership for improving the energy performance of new homes.  “Today’s new homes are much more efficient in comparison to homes built just a decade ago.  These homes are more affordable to maintain, comfortable and have a higher value.  Thanks to leaders like Drees Homes, builders are increasing the energy performance of the homes they build.  This is good for consumers, the environment, the local economy and our national security.  It is great to have such a large production builder like Drees Homes educating homebuyers on the RESNET HERS Index.”

In making the commitment Drees Homes has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

For quite some time, it has been the contention of many that the RESNET standards apply only to new homes and that they do not address existing home. While this has never been the actual case, it has also been true that the RESNET standards did not contain a specific methodology for the calculation of standardized energy savings (asset savings) resulting from existing home retrofits.

After a public review and comment process the RESNET Board of Directors adopted an amendment to RESNET’s standards to provide a specific methodology that will fill this gap. Such a standard methodology is sorely needed by the Rating industry and by others, including Congress, in the development

of policies and programs aimed at reducing energy use in existing housing stock.

The amendment defines the baseline home and the improved home for calculating the project energy savings,  the standard operating conditions used for modeling the projected energy savings and how air distribution systems should be addressed if not tested.

To view the adopted amendment click on Calculation of Retrofit Energy Savings

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer half day REM/Rate Training.

This session will teach basic and advanced features of the REM/Rate software. Data input, reporting, analysis, exporting, importing as well as little known features will be covered.

The training will be offered by Rob Salcido and Brian Christensen, Architectural Energy Corporation.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

Pre-registration is required through the RESNET Conference registration system

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer half day Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance Inspector Training.

HERS Raters, in good standing with RESNET, have been offered the opportunity to become Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) Accredited Independent Building Envelope Inspectors. SPFA is waiving the enrollment fee and training class cost for this program because of the relationship which SPFA and RESNET have forged and made official in a recent MOU (Method of Understanding). SPFA is looking for individuals with inspection, energy, and insulation knowledge to shorten the learning curve on performing SPF inspections and help us meet SPF industry needs. The role of an Accredited SPFA Independent BE Inspector is to check the work of SPF Applicators to ensure that they do work which meets both Project Specifications and Manufacturer’s Installation Requirements. Three field inspections must be done for each applicator looking to receive SPFA Accreditation and there is currently a shortage of inspectors. To qualify, a HERS Rater must also attend the course and pass the test for Fundamentals of Spray Polyurethane Foam for the Independent Building Envelope Inspector. This course is complimentary to HERS Raters, and RESNET membership status will be verified. Enrollment forms will be available for each person who takes the course. In addition, HERS Raters would need to submit three references of builders for whom they have conducted inspections as well as a resume or job history to complete all SPFA requirements.

The training will be offered by Roger Morrison, Deer Ridge Consulting, Inc.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

Pre-registration is required through the RESNET Conference registration system

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of Thermal Imaging Training.

Are you an Energy Auditor or Home Inspector looking to expand into the Thermal Imaging Business? Join United Infrared for a two day class which will help you incorporate Thermal Imaging into your business and help you know how to inspect the building envelope of a home via infrared technology. As part of the course, we will be doing hands on training at a home and performing blower door testing as part of our survey. Join us Feb 25-26th in Austin, TX.

To see more about the course offering, please view: www.energyscanir.com/training

The training will be conducted offsite at the Courtyard Marriott Austin.

The training will be offered by energyscanir.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference Thermal Imaging Training, select EnergyScanIR module and at checkout screen use coupon code: resnet2012

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

Building Efficiency Resources (BER) has been a leader in providing high quality and interactive training for ENERGY STAR Version 3 throughout 2011, with over 130 students trained

For those who have not yet been trained, you may have received an email from ENERGY STAR this week informing you that your partnership will be revoked unless you receive the training.

The great news is we are still committed to helping new and existing ENERGY STAR partners get trained for the Version 3 standard throughout the new year!

BER offers the most convenient training format in the industry, with Raters able to take the training in 6 2-hr modules online, either in the morning or evening, so that you don’t miss work or get totally bored with a full-day webinar marathon.

To learn more about our Version 3 training and to register, follow this link:

http://theber.com/estarv3Training.php

This post was submitted by Chris McTaggart.

HERS Rater Training
March 5-10, 2012
Springfield, MA

The Northeast HERS Alliance is offering a six-day training course designed to prepare individuals to become certified Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Raters.

The class includes a thorough review of basic energy concepts, field experience with blower door testing and duct blasting, training on the latest version of rating software, and performing a home energy rating and entering the data into REM/Rate.

For online registration and course information, go to www.nehers.org/calendar/, or contact Laurie@nehers.org / 978-544-8270.

This post was submitted by Laurie DiDonato.

On February 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer an one day Energy Smart Contractor Training.

Topics Covered Include:

• Basics of heat transfer concepts and air distribution leakage
• The energy consequences of common construction practices
• Basic Combustion Appliance concerns
• Basics of envelope and duct leakage, air sealing and insulation
• Understanding of thermal boundaries
• The House as a System – Basics of measure interaction, expected life and bundling for optimal performance
• RESNET retrofit work scope requirements and recommendations

Benefits of the Course:  At the end of the course, students will be ready for the RESNET Qualified Contractors Exam and be qualified to include optimal home performance measures in their existing contracting business.

The training will be offered by Dallas Jones, Green Training USA.

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference Energy Smart Contractor Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of Train the Trainer on Principals for Educating Adults Training.

Using evidence-based guidelines developed through years of experience and research, this session covers the psychological processes of learning, the learning cycle, near and far knowledge transfer, the different views of learning, different types of training, how to select trainers, using an integrated teaching process, how to structure learning events based on student abilities, principles of instruction, how to analyze a job in order to teach it, how to design a learning experience to maximize knowledge gain, causes of failure, how to manage working memory in adult learners, how to build expertise in a short period of time, and how to design and deliver dynamic presentations.

This training will meet the RESNET requirement for rater trainers completing a program on the principals for educating adults.

The training will be offered by Brett Dillon, IBS Advisors and Kristof Irwin, Positive Energy.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference the Trainer on Principals for Educating Adults Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of 2009 IECC International Energy Conservation Code Fundamentals Training.

Official ICC International Code Council Curriculum developed by the ICC Training and Education Department. Two Day class in which attendees will learn how to apply the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code and how to increase and ensure that energy efficiency is built in during the construction of new buildings and during alterations to existing buildings. Residential, Commercial, and Mixed Use buildings will all be covered. The course will provide an overview of the critical concepts included in the 2009 IECC. By learning and understanding these concepts, attendees will be provided the knowledge base needed for the correct use of the code in the design, plan review, inspection and analysis of projects. Also, the course will provide a clear understanding of the requirements identified in the basic code provisions, tables, and categorizations within the 2009 IECC. Participants will also be able to apply the code in clear-cut situations and to build their understanding of the intent of the code when asked to make code compliance decisions. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will be discussed.

In this course, you will learn to:

• Locate general topics in the 2009 IECC
• Locate applicable tables in the 2009 IECC for specific situations
• Apply code requirements to real-world situations
• Explain the intent behind code requirements
• Identify borderline scenarios as compliant or noncompliant
• Identify essential code components for designing energy-efficient building thermal envelopes
• Understand energy-efficient mechanical design principals
• Design electrical power and lighting systems that meet code requirements

Attendees will receive a 2009 IECC Code Book and 2009 IECC Workbook for use during and after the course.

The training will be offered by Terry A. Collins, Abaci Energy Efficiency.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference 2009 IECC International Energy Conservation Code Fundamentals Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of LEED for Homes Green Rater Training.

The LEED for Homes program has a total of 45,000 registered residential units and over 12,000 certified units. Over 14,000 units have been registered in 2011 alone.

As of January 1, 2011, all registered LEED for Homes projects must have a LEED for Homes Green Rater on the verification team and HERS Raters are ideal professionals to conduct the required performance testing and verify the home’s green measures. LEED for Homes Green Raters must meet professional eligibility qualifications, participate in the Green Rater Training, and pass an assessment before verifying LEED for Homes projects. Once in the field, they complete a mentorship before earning their certificate. The result: A strong credible program supported by arguably the most qualified, competent and successful green raters in the industry.

Join the USGBC Faculty for the 2 day workshop portion of the training. Upon (and included) in registration, you will receive access to 5 online learning modules that must be completed before arriving to the workshop portion.

The training will be offered by the USGBC Faculty.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference USGBC LEED for Homes Green Rater Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

In an effort to provide consumers a fun way to learn about how the HERS Index works and what the scores mean, RESNET has posted an interactive HERS Index tool as the home page of its consumer site

As you move the score of the HERS Index the tool will graphically indicate the resulting cost savings, reduction of carbon emissions and increased comfort of the home. The estimated average cost savings from the changing the HERS Index score was developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

The site states that the savings numbers are for educational purposes only and that for specific information on a particular home the consumer should have a home energy rating conducted by a certified RESNET Home Energy Rater.

To view the the new HERS Index interactive tool click on HERS Index

This education tool will enforce the movement of builders that commit to having their homes energy rated and marketing their homes HERS Index.  For more information on the momentum of builders and the HERS Index click on RESNET Energy Smart Builders

Does anyone know if Pulte Homes has committed to Energy Star for Homes Version 3?
I thought I read a blurb in the Resnet Notes about Pulte, cannot find
thanks

This post was submitted by Joe Nagan.

Wed, Jan 25, 2012
8 am-4 pm
Radisson Hotel and Conference Center
2040 Airport Drive
Green Bay, WI

Water heating technologies have changed dramatically over the past 10 years. These changes represent both a challenge and an opportunity to deliver hot water in an energy and water efficient manner in existing homes while giving the customer the system performance they desire. In this training, you’ll learn the performance and economics of available water heating technologies and the advantages and disadvantages of storage and tankless water heaters. We’ll also discuss technology changes likely to happen in the next few years that represent a business opportunity for the plumbing industry.

http://www.ecw.org/university/ecuevent.php?ecuid=450

This post was submitted by Lonna Kruse.

Did you miss the December 31,2011 deadline to get certified?
No worries: We offer a 2 day online ENERGY STAR VERSION 3 CLASS at following dates in the fist quarter of 2012:
January 5-6
January 19-20
February 6-7
April 23-24

To read more visit us at our EnergyLogic Academy:

http://energylogicacademy.com/course-descriptions/programs/energy-star-for-homes-version-3/

This post was submitted by Eve Owen.

After January 27, 2012 the cost of registering for the 2012 RESNET Conference will go up by $100.00.  Do not miss this opportunity.  Register for the conference today.  Register online by clicking on 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference Registration

The cut off for the special RESNET Conference rate for hotel rooms is February 3, 2012.  Last year’s conference hotel filled before conference date.  Make your conference hotel room reservations today by clicking on 2012 RESNET Conference Hotel Reservations

On January 3, 2012 ANSI accredited RESNET as a Standards Development Organization (SDO). This means that RESNET can develop ANSI standards.

ANSI has served in its capacity as administrator and coordinator of the United States private sector voluntary standardization system for more than 90 years.  ANSI facilitates the development of American National Standards (ANS) by accrediting the procedures of standards developing organizations (SDOs). These groups work cooperatively to develop voluntary national consensus standards. Accreditation by ANSI signifies that the procedures used by the standards body in connection with the development of American National Standards meet the Institute’s essential requirements for openness, balance, consensus and due process.

The first amendment that RESNET will submit is for an ANSI standard that incorporates RESNET’s technical standard and the rating of the energy performance of a home.

Residential Energy Efficiency Account Manager

Energy, Environment & Transportation
Energy Efficiency
Fairfax, Virginia

About ICF International
ICF International (NASDAQ:ICFI) partners with government and commercial clients to deliver professional services and technology solutions in the energy and climate change; environment and infrastructure; health, human services, and social programs; and homeland security and defense markets. The firm combines passion for its work with industry expertise and innovative analytics to produce compelling results throughout the entire program life cycle, from research and analysis through implementation and improvement. Since 1969, ICF has been serving government at all levels, major corporations, and multilateral institutions. More than 3,500 employees serve these clients worldwide. ICF’s Web site is www.icfi.com.

ICF is a leader in designing and implementing effective and innovative demand side management strategies, including energy efficiency, demand response, and peak load management. Our thorough understanding of our clients’ needs enables us to help energy companies, governments, and commercial clients worldwide to manage energy consumption and peak demand.

Job Description:
To support our growth, we are seeking an Account Manager for our Energy Efficiency group to provide critical program support services for our residential energy efficiency programs.

Responsibilities:
-Building and maintaining relationships with key market actors in the new home construction industry including builders, home energy raters, utilities, home building associations, subcontractors, etc.
-Conducting partner support and recruitment activities to achieve the program goals
-Maintaining ongoing communications and outreach with program participants and allies
-Providing or referring participants to technical and marketing assistance
-Assisting in the development and execution of training
-Assisting with developing and implementing program strategies
-Preparing persuasive presentations to technical and non-technical audiences
-Managing operations and databases
-Researching and analyzing of energy efficiency and industry issues
-Contributing to the evolution of program strategies and specifications
-Corresponding with industry and government representatives

Basic Qualifications:
-Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Energy Policy, Architectural/Mechanical Engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture, Sustainability or related area
-Passion for the residential sector, in particular energy efficiency
-Strong outreach and communications skills, analytical skills, and self-motivation
-Capability to build and maintain relationships with key market actors in the residential sector including utilities, builders, and home energy raters
-High level of competency with computer programs such as Excel and PowerPoint and ability to learn how to effectively use and maintain custom databases

Preferred Skills/Experience:
-Knowledge of integrated or whole housing building science priciples
-Knowledge of energy and U.S. policies for residential energy
-Knowledge of sustainable building practices and technologies
-Knowledge of green building and major programs
-Business-to-business, sales, or recruitment experience
-LEED, RESNET, and/or BPI certification

Professional Skills:
-Outstanding analytical, writing, and communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills are required. Comfort with public speaking is necessary
-Well organized, strong time management skills, and the ability to multitask
-Ability to work under strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment

ICF International offers an excellent benefits package, an award winning talent development program, and fosters a highly skilled, energized and empowered workforce. To apply, please submit your resume, transcript, and a 3-5 page writing sample.

ICF International is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer – M/F/D/V

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter at: https://icfi.taleo.net/careersection/icf_prof_ext/jobdetail.ftl?job=92660&lang=en&sns_id=gmail

This post was submitted by Celine Colin de Verdiere.

The federal tax credit for builders to build energy efficient homes (45L) and for homeowners to install energy efficient products (25C) expired on December 31, 2011.

After extending the payroll tax cut, unemployment benefits and doctor Medicare payments for two months, Congress adjourned for its holidays recess.  Congress failed to take action on a “tax extenders” legislative package that would have renewed a number of tax credits including the residential efficiency credits.

RESNET and its strategic allies have been working hard with members of the Senate Finance Committee to have the residential energy efficiency tax credits extended.  Word in Washington is that when Congress comes back into session in January, there will be a push to extend these important credits retroactively to January 1, 2012.

We need your help to make this happen.  It is essential that the RESNET network and its building industry clients reach out to their Congressional delegation and educated them on the importance of the residential energy efficiency tax credits.

To assist you in this effort RESNET has posted a RESNET Legislative Call to Action page on its web site.  The site includes:

• A recording of the Legislative Call to Action webinar that was conducted by RESNET’s Washington representative
• A page on how to locate your Congressional delegation
• Talking points for Congressional staff

The time is now to reach out and educate your Congressional delegation on the importance of the residential energy efficiency credits.  By standing up we can make our voice heard in Washington.

On February 25 & 26, the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer the two day Texas HERO Comprehensive Energy Auditor Training.

This two day course and is based on the Texas Home Energy Audit Standard, developed by Texas HERO. It is designed for current HERS Raters who are interested in pursuing the existing homes market. Current certification as a HERS Rater is required prior to attending this course. This course includes training on how to prioritize improvement recommendations based upon findings, software analysis, writing scopes of work and combustion safety testing. This course includes both lecture and field work.

This course is Texas Home Energy Audit Standard specific. The test is a 2-hour written exam, multiple, choice, open resource (standard and course material). The students will jointly perform an audit on an example home, observing the performance combustion safety tests being conducted. Students will then perform software analysis and produce scopes of work for the home as well.

The training will be presented by C.T. Loyd of Texas HERO.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference Texas HERO Comprehensive Rater Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will be a not-to-miss event.

An increasing number of builders are taking advantage of the RESNET HERS Index. Over the past month, builders in states ranging from Texas to Connecticut have entered into Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with RESNET. In the MOUs, the builders commit to having their homes energy rated by a certified RESNET rater and marketing their homes’ HERS Index.

The following are the new state and regional builders who have made the commitment in December, 2011:

Chandler Design-Build Creative Construction

North Carolina

Cobblestone Homes

Michigan

Drees Homes

Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, DC and West Virginia

Essex Builders

North Carolina and South Carolina

K. Hovnanian Windward Homes

Florida

Preferred Builders

Connecticut

ProBuilt Homes

Ohio

Southern Homebuilders

North Carolina

In making the commitment these builders has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on RESNET HERS Index

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other regional and local builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

OAK Tree Building Science Institute, an affiliate of the Louisiana Association of Community Action Partnerships, is beginning an Advanced Building Science Series starting in January 2012. If you sign up for classes before December 31, 2011 receive $100 off your enrollment! Contact Elliott Management Consultants, Inc. for questions or register online at www.regonline.com/abss. Hurry as space is limited!!

Oak Tree Ad small.jpg (238 KB)

This post was submitted by Michelle Haught.

RESNET consumer research shows that before making any purchasing decision, the majority of homeowners will evaluate and compare energy efficiency raters and contractors online.

As part of their online search, homeowners look for positive reviews on certain sites as reliable indicators of performance and customer satisfaction. Top sites include Angie’s List, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.

In light of the data, we encourage all RESNET members to take the following steps to enhance your marketing efforts*:

1. Ask your satisfied customers to post their experiences to Angie’s List and Yelp.

Here is some suggested text that can be customized to fit your particular situation:

“Thank you again for your business! If you would like to tell the world about your positive experience with us as a RESNET-certified rater/contractor, please follow any of the links below to submit a review.”

Yelp

Angie’s List Report Form (PDF)

Note: To make it easy for the customer, you may want to print the Angie’s List report form and provide them with a hard copy, so they don’t need to print it themselves.

2. Add links to these sites on your own website, encouraging prospective customers to read reviews of your company, and mention any particularly high rating on your site and in your marketing collateral [e.g., “A” rating on Angie’s List, “BBB Accredited Business” (if applicable), etc.]

Yelp

Angie’s List

3. Monitor your reviews on Yelp and Angie’s List.

Monitor Yelp

Monitor Angie’s List

4. Carefully respond to any negative reviews, using the guidelines posted on the respective sites.

Respond on Yelp

Respond on Angie’s List

5. Consider applying for accreditation with your local Better Business Bureau.

*Please check the websites for more specific instructions.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of training on Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEM).

This two-day course will properly prepare HERS Raters and Home Performance Contractors to complete the entire process of each type of Energy Efficient Mortgage. It will cover topics such as: FHA, VA, and conventional guidelines, Existing home and new construction EEMs, Completing an EEM step-by-step, Proper documentation and report requirements, How to use REM/Rate effectively, Working with lenders and real estate agents, Case studies of new purchases and refinances, Marketing ideas and strategies.  Plus, you will get tools and materials that will simplify the process and minimize your turn-around time which is critical to your success, and the success of your clients. After completion of this course, you will receive an EEM Partner designation, and you will be prepared to facilitate EEMs from start to finish and confidently add this underutilized product to your range of services.

The training will be presented by Jason Payne of EEM Training LLC.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference Energy Efficient Mortgage Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will be a not-to-miss event.

On February 25 & 26, 2012 the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference will offer two days of training on ACCA Manual J.

Grow your business by offering Manual-J calculations! Now that room-by-room Manual-J load calculations are required by ENERGY STAR, you have a great opportunity to grow your business! In addition, the savings in HVAC equipment costs typically saves your client more than they have to spend to have you perform the calculation!

Manual-J is the first step of the HVAC design process. This process ensures that the designer understands the true energy needs of a building, so that a properly sized system can be selected. Due to the presence of new building materials, advanced insulation systems, solar design strategies, and efficient ventilation systems, it’s impossible to use rule-of-thumb sizing methods and achieve accurate results.

Whether you’re an HVAC contractor, an energy auditor, or a HERS rater, this class will provide you a better understanding of proper system sizing and the implications of doing things the “wrong” way.

You’ll leave this class familiar with Wrightsoft software, enabling you to easily perform load calculations for yourself or your clients. Students must bring their own laptop, as you’ll be using a demo copy of Wrightsoft software to do in-class and homework problems.

The training will be offered by Isaac  Savage of Home Energy Partners.

This training will only offered to 2012 RESNET Conference attendees.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference

There is a registration fee for this pre-conference training.  To register click on 2012 RESNET Conference Manual J Training

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is a not-to-miss event.

The City of Santa Fe and Town of Taos, New Mexico have joined the ranks of other local governments that are requiring new homes to achieve a RESNET HERS Index target as part of the jurisdiction’s building code.

Since January 1, 2008 all new residential single family units built within the city of Santa Fe have been required to meet a confirmed RESNET HERS Index target.  The Santa Fe Residential Green Building Code’s HERS Index threshold is driven by the size of the home.  Homes that are 3,000 square feet or less must have a HERS Index of 70 or better.  The required score goes down to a 0 HERS Index for homes greater than 10,000 square feet.

For more information on the Santa Fe HERS Index requirement click on Santa Fe HERS Index

For more information on the Santa Fe Residential Building Code click on Santa Fe Code

In September 2009 the Taos Town Council adopted the High Performance Program as part of the community’s Vision 2020 Master Plan.  The High Performance Program modified the town’s building energy code to require a HERS Index on all new homes.

When the requirement went into effect, the code required a HERS Index of 85 or better for homes that were 3,000 square feet or larger.  On January 1, 2010 the code was revise to require a HERS Index of 80 or better for all homes.  On January 1, 2011 the HERS Index target was moved to 75 or better.  On January 1, 2012 the requirement was tightened to a HERS Index of 70 or better.

In adopting the HERS Index requirement The Taos Town Council found that “energy rating systems and high performance building standards are now in widespread use to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs”.

For more information on the Taos energy code requirement click on Taos HERS Index

Santa Fe and Taos have joined communities from Colorado to New York that have incorporated the RESNET HERS Index into their energy code.  The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on RESNET HERS Index

RESNET and Bayer MaterialScience LLC have joined forces to provide homeowners resources for improving home energy usage and lowering utility bills.

RESNET will work with Bayer on several initiatives specific to the building envelope and spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation, for both new home construction and renovations:

• RESNET will provide unbiased third party energy performance rating for homes designed and built using the Bayer High Performance Residential Program guidelines.
• RESNET and Bayer will reciprocally recognize their respective spray foam contractor certification programs, to ensure the safety and quality of SPF installation.
• Bayer and RESNET will assist the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) with implementation of an SPF inspection checklist for home energy raters.
• Bayer’s Michael Strohecker will serve on the insulation advisory council of the RESNET technical committee.

Through the new alignment, Bayer will work jointly with RESNET to promote whole building science principals as an effective way to achieve home energy efficiency.

“This alignment with RESNET is a natural fit for Bayer,” said Renee Zierden, general manager, Bayer MaterialScience LLC Spray Insulation and Roofing Materials. “We are both united in our systems approach to energy efficiency. We also appreciate RESNET’s rigorous EnergySmart Contractor training program as an excellent way to achieve optimal and uniform quality among building professionals.”

Bayer will present a session at the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference, being held February 27-29 in Austin, TX. The session will cover best practices for unvented attics using SPF.

Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,700 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2010 sales of 10.2 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life.  Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, excellence in corporate management, social responsibility and respect for the environment.

Builders Challenge is the Department of Energy’s (DOE) label for leading edge builders who employ high-performance home innovations coming from the Building America research program. The purpose of this label is to help establish proven technologies and best practices and to build an infrastructure for delivering them to the housing industry.

DOE has released draft Builders Challenge Version 2 specifications for public review.  These new specifications are scheduled to be finalized and take effect for all homes permitted after April 1, 2012.

The most significant change from Version 1 is full alignment with ENERGY STAR for Homes Version 3 specifications. This includes a variable HERS Index Score performance threshold based on a Builders Challenge Reference Design with a size adjustment factor. Generally, Builders Challenge certified homes will need to achieve a HERS Index Score of 60 or lower. Also of significance are proposed mandatory requirements including more rigorous thermal envelope measures, ducts inside the conditioned space, and checklists from other related EPA programs (e.g., Indoor airPLUS, WaterSense for indoor fixtures and hot water distribution, and Renewable Energy Ready Home).

DOE expects Builders Challenge Version 2 to provide HERS raters with another powerful differentiation tool to offer existing and new builder clients in this soft housing market.

RESNET will be hosting a webinar on the proposed Builders Challenge Version specifications on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. (Eastern), 2:00 p.m. (Central), 1:00 p.m. (Mountain) and Noon (Pacific).  This webinar will present these key technical specifications, new implementation procedures, and DOE’s strategy for engaging homebuilders. To register to participate in the webinar click on RESNET Builders Challenge Webinar

Tue, Jan 24, 2012
Wyndham Milwaukee Airport Hotel & Convention Center
4747 S Howell Avenue
Milwaukee, WI

Water heating technologies have changed dramatically over the past 10 years. These changes represent both a challenge and an opportunity to deliver hot water in an energy and water efficient manner in existing homes while giving the customer the system performance they desire. In this training, you’ll learn the performance and economics of available water heating technologies and the advantages and disadvantages of storage and tankless water heaters. We’ll also discuss technology changes likely to happen in the next few years that represent a business opportunity for the plumbing industry.

http://www.ecw.org/university/ecuevent.php?ecuid=450

This post was submitted by Lonna Kruse.

Builders Challenge is the Department of Energy’s (DOE) label for leading edge builders who employ high-performance home innovations coming from the Building America research program. The purpose of this label is to help establish proven technologies and best practices and to build an infrastructure for delivering them to the housing industry.

DOE has released draft Builders Challenge Version 2 specifications for public review.  These new specifications are scheduled to be finalized and take effect for all homes permitted after April 1, 2012.

The most significant change from Version 1 is full alignment with ENERGY STAR for Homes Version 3 specifications. This includes a variable HERS Index Score performance threshold based on a Builders Challenge Reference Design with a size adjustment factor. Generally, Builders Challenge certified homes will need to achieve a HERS Index Score of 60 or lower. Also of significance are proposed mandatory requirements including more rigorous thermal envelope measures, ducts inside the conditioned space, and checklists from other related EPA programs (e.g., Indoor airPLUS, WaterSense for indoor fixtures and hot water distribution, and Renewable Energy Ready Home).

DOE expects Builders Challenge Version 2 to provide HERS raters with another powerful differentiation tool to offer existing and new builder clients in this soft housing market.

RESNET will be hosting a webinar on the proposed Builders Challenge Version specifications on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. (Eastern), 2:00 p.m. (Central), 1:00 p.m. (Mountain) and Noon (Pacific).  This webinar will present these key technical specifications, new implementation procedures, and DOE’s strategy for engaging homebuilders. To register to participate in the webinar click on RESNET Builders Challenge Webinar

President Obama and former President Bill Clinton at Announcement of Initiative

President Obama on December 2, 2011 announced nearly $4 billion in combined federal and private sector energy upgrades to buildings over the next 2 years. These investments will save billions in energy costs, promote energy independence, and, according to independent estimates, create tens of thousands of jobs in the hard-hit construction sector.

The $4 billion investment includes a $2 billion commitment, made through the issuance of a Presidential Memorandum, to energy upgrades of federal buildings using long term energy savings to pay for up-front costs, at no cost to taxpayers.

In addition, 60 CEOs, mayors, university presidents, and labor leaders today committed to invest nearly $2 billion of private capital into energy efficiency projects; and to upgrade energy performance by a minimum of 20% by 2020 in 1.6 billion square feet of office, industrial, municipal, hospital, university, community college and school buildings.

This announcement builds on a commitment made by 14 partners at the Clinton Global Initiative America meeting in June to make energy upgrades across 300 million square feet, and to invest $500 million in private sector financing in energy efficiency projects.

The commitments were announced by President Obama and former President Clinton along with representatives from more than 60 organizations as part of the Better Buildings Challenge. The Challenge is part of the Better Buildings Initiative launched in February by President Obama, and is spearheaded by former President Clinton and the President’s Council on Jobs and Competitiveness to support job creation by catalyzing private sector investment in commercial and industrial building energy upgrades to make America’s buildings 20 percent more efficient over the next decade, reducing energy costs for American businesses by nearly $40 billion. Last year, commercial buildings consumed roughly 20 percent of all the energy used by the U.S. economy.

“Upgrading the energy efficiency of America’s buildings is one of the fastest, easiest, and cheapest ways to save money, cut down on harmful pollution, and create good jobs right now. But we can’t wait for Congress to act. So today, I’m directing all federal agencies to make at least $2 billion worth of energy efficiency upgrades over the next 2 years – at no up-front cost to the taxpayer. Coupled with today’s extraordinary private sector commitments of $2 billion to upgrade businesses, factories, and military housing, America is taking another big step towards the competitive, clean energy economy it will take to win the future,” said President Obama.

“Investments in building retrofits and energy efficiency can make a real difference in the American economy, by creating jobs, growing our industries, improving businesses’ bottom lines, reducing our energy bills and consumption, and preserving our planet for future generations. I am proud the Clinton Foundation has been able to help develop and grow President Obama’s Better Buildings Challenge, and that so many members of the Clinton Global Initiative have joined this Challenge. Working together, I am pleased the commitments to the BBC have grown from the initial $500 million and 300 million square feet that we announced in June at CGI America, to the $2 billion investment with over 1 billion square feet of retrofitted space that we are announcing today,” said President Clinton.

“The Better Buildings initiative has all the components to make a real difference-it will create profitable investment opportunities for worker pension funds, create badly needed good jobs, increase America’s competitiveness around energy savings, and address the dangers of climate change,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka.

In a move the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has recognized as critical to job creation, today’s Presidential Memorandum calls for fully implementing existing federal authority to utilize Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs)in order to promote energy efficiency and create new jobs. Under the ESPC program, new energy efficient equipment is installed at Federal facilities at no up-front cost to the government. The cost of the improvements is paid for over time with energy costs saved on utility bills, and the private sector contractors guarantee the energy savings.

To down load the full announcement from the White House click on $4 Billion Building Performance Investment

Jim Petersen and Dennis Stroer were elected to the RESNET Board of Directors in the recent 2011 RESNET Board Election.  Their two year term will begin on January 1, 2012.

Jim Petersen

Dennis Stroer

Jim Petersen manages the research and development process to improve the quality, cost, and durability of PulteGroup’s Del Webb, DiVosta, Centex and Pulte homes. Jim also manages their energy efficiency efforts, work with our partners to develop new products and processes, and manage our issue resolution process. He is a Mechanical Engineer with 30 years of experience in the design and development of engineered components and systems.

For 20 years, Dennis Stroer has owned Compliance Data Services, Inc. AKA Calcs-Plus, in Venice, Fla. He performs HVAC load calculations and Energy calculations for the HVAC and construction industry for the permitting process, and HVAC system design & load calculations and Energy calculations (residential and light commercial), airside diagnostics, building diagnostics related to infiltration and moisture control, and Class 1 Energy Ratings and the Florida Green Building certification. Dennis provides training in calculation & design procedures related to HVAC industry. As a Class 1 Energy Rater, he provides energy ratings for HERS index for LEED certification, Energy Star certification & Green Home program certification including Florida Green Building Coalition & HBA certification. Dennis is an ACCA certified instructor for Manual J v8, a member ACCA Manual D Technical Advisory Committee and the RESNET Technical Committee, and is a Building America Partner through University of Central Florida – Florida Solar Energy Center.

RESNET congratulates Dennis and Jim election to the RESNET Board and looks forward to the addition of their leadership and experience.

RESNET Board Members serve two year scattered terms.  RESNET members elect their representatives of their category of membership to represent them on the RESNET Board.

This year, the terms of one Rater Member Representative, six Rating Provider Representatives, two Rater Training Provider Representative and one Associate Member Representative were up.  RESNET completed an online election for the above seats.  The following individuals were elected in the 2010 RESNET Board Election:

Rater Member Representative

Dennis Stroer, CalcsPlus, Florida

Rating Provider Representatives

Steve Byers, EnergyLogic, Colorado

Dave Bell, Environments for Living, Florida

Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center, Florida

Andy Gordon, Washington State University Energy Program, Washington

Lee O’Neal, MABTEC, Virginia

Greg Thomas, Performance Systems Development, New York

Rater Training Provider Representatives

Dennis Creech, Southface Energy Institute, Georgia

Brett Dillon, IBS Advisors, Texas

Associate Member Representative

Jim Petersen, the PulteGroup, Michigan

RESNET wishes to congratulate those who were selected by RESNET’s members to represent them on the RESNET Board of Directors.

RESNET also wishes to thank those who were not elected for their dedication to the organization for standing for election.  It is unfortunate that with elections not every qualified candidate can win.

Building Efficiency Resources (aka “The BER”) is a national green building and energy efficiency training, administration and quality assurance organization. As a RESNET Rating and Training Provider, our mission is to provide our clients with industry-leading customer and technical support, while maintaining the highest standards in our industry.

The BER is seeking an experienced administrative professional with strong personal and computer skills. This individual shall support our management team by managing and processing data, producing reports, and shall serve as a customer service representative to our clients.

Candidates shall possess the following minimum qualifications:
• High degree of computer literacy, including fluency in MS Office Suite, database management experience, etc.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong research and organization skills
• Experience in customer service and sales
• Interest and enthusiasm in green building, energy efficiency, sustainability, etc.

Additional preferred qualifications include:
• Website, database, and graphic design experience
• Quickbooks experience
• Specific knowledge and experience in green building, energy efficiency, and sustainability
• BPI or RESNET certification
• Adult education training development and delivery experience

Given that The BER is a national company which conducts the majority of business virtually, our employees enjoy the ability to work from the comfort of their home office. However, travel may be required for up to two months per year. Compensation will be commensurate with experience.

Please send one page resume and one page cover letter that explains why you think you would be an ideal candidate for this position to HERS@theber.com.

This post was submitted by Chris McTaggart.

RESNET Board Members serve two year scattered terms. RESNET members elect their representatives of their category of membership to represent them on the RESNET Board.

This year, the terms of one Rater Member Representative, six Rating Provider Representatives, two Rater Training Provider Representative and one Associate Member Representative were up. RESNET completed an online election for the above seats. The following individuals were elected in the 2011 RESNET Board Election:

• Steve Byers, EnergyLogic, Colorado
• Dave Bell, Environments for Living, Florida
• Dennis Creech, Southface Energy Institute, Georgia
• Brett Dillon, IBS Advisors, Texas
• Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center, Florida
• Andy Gordon, Washington State University Energy Program, Washington
• Lee O’Neal, MABTEC, Virginia
• Jim Petersen, the PulteGroup, Michigan
• Dennis Stroer, CalcsPlus, Florida
• Greg Thomas, Performance Systems Development, New York

RESNET wishes to congratulate those who were selected by RESNET’s members to represent them on the RESNET Board of Directors.

he Building America program seeks presentations from researchers and stakeholders for the 2012 meeting that are focused on informing the residential building industry about key issues, needs, and research results related to peak energy performance strategies. Presentations can focus on topics ranging from product development, to in-field application, to large-scale verification.

Each session will engage the audience with presentations from both the research and practitioner background. Presentations should be approximately 20 minutes in length, will be grouped with two presenters of like topics, and will follow with a 20-minute Q&A session. To submit a presentation topic, please visit the Presenter Submittal Web page to complete a brief description of the presentation, a bio of the presenter, and full presenter contact information before December 30 2011.

Please feel free to share this invitation and call for presentations with your colleagues. Questions?  Email: BAmeetings@confluencec.com .

An increasing number of builders are taking advantage of the RESNET HERS Index. Over the past month, builders in states ranging from Ohio to South Carolina have entered into Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with RESNET. In the MOUs, the builders commit to having their homes energy rated by a certified RESNET rater and marketing their homes’ HERS Index.

The following are the new state and regional builders who have made the commitment in November, 2011:

Addison Homes

South Carolina

Georgiou and Kelly Development

Indiana

JM Dungan Custom Homes

Ohio

Perry Homes

Texas

Providence Homes

Florida

R.E.A. Homes

Missouri

S. Kelly Builders

Indiana

In making the commitment these builders has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on RESNET HERS Index

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other regional and local builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

BER Raters and Contacts,

Throughout 2011, Building Efficiency Resources has trained over 100 Raters throughout the United States for the ENERGY STAR Version 3 program. The popularity of our training is based on both our enthusiasm and expertise in presenting the course content, as well as our dedication to providing the training in a format that is convenient for our clients.

Our training, presented online in six 2.5-hr. modules via GoToWebinar software, has allowed our trainees to earn their training certificate for the EPA-mandated training at their own pace without spending the time or money to travel. Furthermore, we have traditionally presented the training in both morning and evening sessions, so that trainees can attend the training from either home or office without sacrificing their daytime working hours.

However, we understand that some Raters’ schedules are such that training during the daytime is preferable. Due to this, we will be presenting the training modules next week during the day starting at both 9am and 1pm EST. These training times will be particularly convenient for raters on the West coast.

If you have not yet taken the ENERGY STAR Version 3 Rater Training, remember that you must complete the training prior to working on any ENERGY STAR Version 3 homes. There’s only less than one month before the new standard takes effect, so sign up today so that you can become certified before the new year.

To learn more about the training and to sign up, visit our ESv3 training page.

http://theber.com/training.php
To view the schedule of our trainings, visit our training calendar.

http://theber.com/estarv3Online.php

This post was submitted by Chris McTaggart.

EnergyLogic has announced a bold new service – The EnergyLogic Energy User Guarantee
http://www.nrglogic.com/blog/?p=463

This post was submitted by Steve Byers.

We are extremely proud to announce our work with CLEAResult, one of the nation’s leading and fastest growing energy efficiency consultancies. Please see the attached Press Release and look for more announcements in the near future. Our momentum is building, thanks to all of those who are partnering with us in success.

http://optimiserenergy.com/2011/12/01/press-release-clearesult-selects-optimiser/

OMV2 PR FINAL 113011.pdf (442 KB)

This post was submitted by Steve Byers.

Texas based production builder Perry Homes has entered into an agreement with the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to provide new home buyers an important measurement of long-term energy performance of each new home the company builds.  The intent of the agreement is to raise consumers’ knowledge of new home energy performance by using RESNET’s HERS Index.  Use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by Perry Homes from other homes for sale in the market.

Perry Homes is one of the largest home builders in the U.S.  The company is a member of the Leading Builders of America.  For more information on Perry Homes click on http://www.perryhomes.com/

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on HERS Index

Steve Baden, executive director of RESNET lauded Perry Homes’ leadership for improving the energy performance of new homes.  “Today’s new homes are much more efficient in comparison to homes built just a decade ago.  These homes are more affordable to maintain, comfortable and have a higher value.  Thanks to leaders like Perry Homes, builders are increasing the energy performance of the homes they build.  This is good for consumers, the environment, the local economy and our national security.  It is great to have such a large production builder like Perry Homes educating homebuyers on the RESNET HERS Index.”

In making the commitment Perry Homes has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

What the heck are you folks at RESNET Thinking???

Pools, spas, hot tubs etc, are clearly luxury items that are NOT an integral part of a homes Basic and Essential heating, cooling, dhw, lighting & appliance components. What’s next – a “Hybrid Vehicle Rater Designation”?

Here’s a Novel idea – rather than waste RESNET staff and technical committee time and money helping organizations like the Pool & Spa Industry market their products, How about Re-Forming a Strategic Alliance with the Mortgage Industry, HUD, and the VA and start helping your Raters do what the HERS industry was created to do 15 years ago – help improve the Energy Performance of American Homes through Energy Financing Programs.

This post was submitted by Wes Riley.

Hybrid 4-day Rater Training
January 18-21, 2012
Philadelphia, PA

The Northeast HERS Alliance is offering a special “Hybrid” rater training with access to online study modules as soon as the student registers.

• Part 1: Self-paced online study modules and quizzes, starting as soon as you register.

• Part 2: 4-day comprehensive classroom and hands-on fieldwork including trainer presentations, three guided Ratings, practice with blower door and duct blaster equipment, material review, and the RESNET HERS rater exam.

This format allows students to start the classroom training more prepared and with test-taking practice.

For online registration and course information, go to www.nehers.org/calendar/, or contact Laurie@nehers.org / 978-544-8270.

This post was submitted by Peggy MacLeod.

Colorado ENERGY STAR Summit
for Building Industry Professionals
Dec. 6 & 7 in Denver, Colorado
Event Details

Join building professionals from Colorado, nationally, and other major stakeholders in the home energy and energy upgrade industries to learn more about building and inspecting residential new construction and renovations.

Presentation Topics:
• The House as a System
• Moisture Impact
• Residential Air Flow
• Outlast and Outshine the Competition: Pricing Profitability
• Whole House Air Leakage
• Xcel ENERGY STAR Home Audit Program
• Combustion Principles and Safety Testing
• Building science as part of the building codes
• Updates on the 2012 IECC
• Duct sizing and register sizing
• IAQ Issues
• Old Home, Healthy Home
• IR Best Practices
• Historic Windows
• EPA New Homes Labeling Program
• How to Be Profitable in Any Economy
• Reaching the Consumer
• Sales Tips
• Internet Marketing 101
• and much more…
This week there is a $100 Registration DISCOUNT. When you register by COB on Friday December 2, 2011 you will save over $100 for the two day event in December on Tuesday 12/6 and Wednesday 12/7.

$100 Event Registration Discount
Use code AXEBD6 and save $100.
Registration closes December 2.

This post was submitted by Matt Tharnbarry.

RESNET has launched RESNET Energy Smart Teams which represents a new approach to comprehensive retrofits of existing homes.  The approach teams up the various facets of the contractor trades with a certified RESNET HERS Rater to offer a comprehensive solution to homeowners.  Team members work together to develop a scope of work and complete home performance retrofit projects.

Each Energy Smart team must have at a minimum a certified rater, an HVAC contractor who is recognized by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America’s (ACCA) QA program and an insulation/air sealing contractor who employs at least one technician who has completed an Insulation Contractors Association of America or other insulation industry quality installation program.

Instead of dictating quality installation procedures for contractors, RESNET recognizes industry standards.  Another unique aspect of the Energy Smart Team is that an independent rater who did not participate in the installation of the upgrades must complete the test out and quality assurance review of the work.  This ensures that the consumer or program sponsor achieves the performance they paid for.

Here how a RESNET Home Energy Team works.  A certified rater would undertake the initial inspection and testing of the home following RESNET’s standards.  This would include the combustion appliance testing and preparation of a work scope.  The contractor members would then complete the upgrades in accordance with the work scope agreed to by the homeowner.  Once the project is completed an independent rater would complete the test out and undertake a quality assurance inspection to ensure the work was completed to the specifications of the work scope.

By working together, and Energy Smart Team provides the homeowner with peace of mind that the job was be completed correctly.

For more information click on RESNET Energy Smart Teams

Another special feature of the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is the KB Home’s ZeroHouse 2.0 Home Tours.

KB Home’s ZeroHouse 2.0 is its first net-zero energy home in the Austin market, part of a nationwide rollout of the builder’s next-generation of energy-efficient homes. This your chance to tour this one-of-a-kind home and see the many features that help reduce energy costs for homeowners. Higher efficiency is the result of a whole-home approach, from the inside out, that begins with increased insulation, upgraded HVAC systems and dual-pane, low-e windows and ends with solar panels on the roof.

Much more than just a concept home, homebuyers in Austin can now incorporate ZeroHouse 2.0 energy efficiency options into their new KB home at the KB Home Studio and may be able to eliminate their monthly electricity charges entirely.

Home tours will take place on Sunday February 26th at 1 PM and 3 PM. Space is limited so reserve your seat today!

Click on 2012 RESNET Conference ZeroHouse 2.0 to access your existing conference registration and register for the KB Home Tour.  If you have not registered for the 2012 RESNET Conference do so today and sign up for the home tour by clicking on 2012 RESNET Conference Registration

Jeffrey T. Mezger, President and CEO of KB Home will be the key note speaker at the 2012 RESNET Conference.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference is an event that you do not want to miss.

RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The home energy rating system was designed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for the inspection and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET HERS raters have rated over 1 million homes since 1995.

For more information on the RESNET HERS Index click on HERS Index

Today’s new homes are much more efficient in comparison to homes built just a decade ago. These homes are more affordable to maintain, comfortable and have a higher value. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are increasing the energy performance of the homes they build. This is good for consumers, the environment, the local economy and our national security. The use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by RESNET Home Energy Raters from other homes for sale in the market. Homebuilders from across the nation have already been designated as RESNET Energy Smart Builders.

For the listing of RESNET national Energy Smart Builders click on RESNET National Energy Smart Builders

For the listing of RESNET regional and state Energy Smart Builders click on RESNET Regional and State Energy Smart Builders

How to Become a RESNET Energy Smart Builder?

All a builder needs to do to be designated by RESNET as an Energy Smart Builder is to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding of RESNET to have all of their homes energy rated and market the homes’ HERS Index. There is no cost to the builder to RESNET to enter into the agreement.  For more information click on RESNET Energy Smart Builder

Certified Home Energy Raters must meet professional development requirements every three years. Certified raters can meet this requirement by attending sessions of the 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference.

RESNET has adopted the following procedures for documenting attendance of conference sessions. The conference program will contain a space by each session for documenting attendance at pre-conference and conference sessions. At the end of the session, raters wanting credit for the session must have the moderator or a session presenter stamp the session on the program.

Raters must submit the conference program to their rating provider in order to receive the conference credits. RESNET will not keep documentation of rater attendance at conference sessions.

The conference general session and each breakout session will offer 1.5 credit hours. Attendance of the conference from February 27-29, including all breakout sessions and the general session, will total 18 total credit hours. Pre-conference sessions also provide professional development credit hours, but courses vary in length/credit.

The 2012 RESNET Conference is an easy way for raters to earn their professional development training credits.  Click on 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference for the description and schedule of educational sessions offered at the conference.  To register for the conference, click on 2012 RESNET Conference Registration.

MHI McGuyer has entered into an agreement with the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to provide new home buyers an important measurement of long-term energy performance of each new home the company builds.  The intent of the agreement is to raise consumers’ knowledge of new home energy performance by using RESNET’s HERS Index.  Use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by MHI McGuyer Home Builders from other homes for sale in the market.

MHI McGuyer Home Builders for is one of the largest home builders in the U.S.  The company has established a separate marketing identity for each of its principal product lines:

• Carmel Builders in the Dallas and Houston, Texas housing markets
• Coventry Homes in the Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, Texas markets
• Pioneer Homes in the Houston market
• Plantation Homes in the Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, Texas markets.

For more information go to http://www.mcguyerhomebuilders.com/about_mhi.aspx

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on HERS Index

In making the commitment MHI McGuyer Home Builders has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other regional and local builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

Steve Baden, executive director of RESNET lauded MHI McGuyer Home Builders’ leadership for improving the energy performance of new homes.  “Today’s new homes are much more efficient in comparison to homes built just a decade ago.  These homes are more affordable to maintain, comfortable and have a higher value.  Thanks to leaders like MHI McGuyer Home Builders, builders are increasing the energy performance of the homes they build.  This is good for consumers, the environment, the local economy and our national security.”

On November 18, 2011, Senators Olympia Snowe (R-ME), Jeff Bingaman D-NM), and Diane Feinstein (D-CA) introduced the “Cut Energy Bills at Home Act”. This bill creates a new performance-based existing homes tax credit (25E). RESNET applauds this bill and these Senators’ consistent leadership on energy efficiency.

The Cut Energy Bills at Home Act provides a $2,000 credit for home energy efficiency retrofits to the homeowner for a 20% improvement in home energy efficiency. For every additional 5% improvement, the homeowner is eligible for an extra $500, up to $5000. The legislation specifically recognizes RESNET standards for certified Home Energy Raters to verify the credit, accredited software programs to model and calculate the energy savings and RESNET Energy Smart Contractors to install the improvements.

RESNET was part of the coalition which worked with Senators Snowe, Bingaman, and Feinstein in drafting this legislation. RESNET feels strongly that a performance-based model, a model which allows the consumer to decide how to best retrofit a home, is good public policy and deserving of support. This is just one more step toward the revitalization of our industry and a more energy efficient America. This also reflects the added credibility that RESNET has in Washington.

RESNET will be working with its strategic allies in urging that Congress take action on ths bill.

For more information including the legislative language and news release from Senator Snowe click on Cut Energy Bills at Home Act

RESNET also urges you to contact your states’ Senators to encourage them to join Senator Snowe, Senator Bingaman, and Senator Feinstein in co-sponsoring the Cut Energy Bills at Home Act.

Accurate Rater Network is offering the final HERS Rater course for 2011 on December 5th and also a shortened version for BPI-trained professionals on December 7th.

Also, ARN is offering ENERGYSTAR Version 3 training on December 13th. Information is available on the main ARN website: http://www.accuraterater.com/
Thank you.

This post was submitted by Ken Riead.

Better Buildings: Better Business Conference Illinois

Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center
1551 North Thoreau Drive
Schaumburg, IL 60173

http://www.betterbuildingsil.org/index.php
New business opportunities are coming. It’s time to get ready.

High performance residential buildings represent your next big opportunity to build your business and wow your customers. This information-packed conference will give you the information you need to get on board now. With high performance homes coming into the forefront, you’ll want to be up-to-speed on every aspect of this emerging area, from building science to the latest tools and techniques.

The Better Buildings: Better Business Conference will give you everything you need. Choose from more than 70 sessions on residential construction and remodeling. Join the industry experts, suppliers and peers who’ll be at this important gathering. It’s time to seize the opportunities for profit and customer satisfaction to be found in high performance homes.

For more information, contact Rebecca Sadler at 608.238.8276 x114 or
registration@betterbuildingsil.org.

This post was submitted by Lonna Kruse.

Better Buildings: Better Business Conference Wisconsin

Feb 29-Mar 2, 2012

Kalahari Resort & Convention Center
1305 Kalahari Drive
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

http://www.betterbuildingswi.org/index.php
Join us to celebrate ten years of dedication to constructing high quality, energy efficient homes. The Better Buildings: Better Business Conference brings leaders of the residential building community together for three days of sessions and networking in Wisconsin Dells. Connect technical strategies for building and remodeling homes with business strategies to help you succeed. Discover the innovative ideas, products and solutions that will bring new energy to the homes you build.

For more information, contact Rebecca Sadler at 608.238.8276 x114 or registration@betterbuildingswi.org.

This post was submitted by Lonna Kruse.

Ashton Woods Homes , an Atlanta, Georgia based homebuilder, has entered into an agreement with the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to provide home buyers an important measurement of long-term energy performance of each new home Ashton Woods Homes builds. The intent of the agreement is to raise consumers’ knowledge of new home energy performance. Use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by Ashton Woods from other homes for sale in the Arizona, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas markets.

Ashton Woods Homes builds homes in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas. They have committed to have each and every home tested and will receive a HERS Index specific to that home. This is not only an excellent quality assurance tool for the builder but also to the buyer of their homes. The homes are tested and evaluated by a third party rater with no interest in the home other than its efficiency. When comparing this home to other new homes be sure to request the HERS Index score for a true comparison. These homes are more affordable to maintain, more durable, more comfortable, and have a higher resale value. It makes sense to incorporate energy efficiency in the construction of all new homes – not only because it saves money but it reduces our use of precious natural resources.  For more information on Ashton Woods Homes visit their web site at http://www.ashtonwoods.com/

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on HERS Index

In making the commitment Ashton Woods has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other regional and local builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

An increasing number of builders are taking advantage of the RESNET HERS Index.  Over the past month, builders in states ranging from Montana to Texas have entered into Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with RESNET.  In the MOUs, the builders commit to having their homes energy rated by a certified RESNET rater and marketing their homes’ HERS Index.

The following are the new state and regional builders who have made the commitment in October, 2011:

Beechen & Dill Homes

Illinois

Braselton Homes

Texas

Carmel Builders

Texas

Coventry Homes

Texas

EGC Custom Homes

Texas

Envy Homes

Montana

Highland Homes

Texas

Horizon Homes

Texas

Huntington Homes

Texas

MHI McGuyer Homebuilders

Texas

Pioneer Homes

Texas

Plantation Homes

Texas

Sanders Custom Homes

Texas

Sunrise Company

Colorado

Wilshire Homes

Texas

In making the commitment these builders has been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder.  RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it.  For more information click on RESNET HERS Index

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other regional and local builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

RESNET wants you to have added credibility by looking professional on the job, and making a strong first impression. That’s what sells! Homeowners are formulating their decision from the moment they meet you, and asking themselves “Is this the company that I trust and want to do business with?”

We can’t deliver your sales pitch, but we can make you look good! The RESNET Apparel Store has patches, shirts, hats, car magnets and more. Outfit your company for the holidays and start next year off looking good.

Visit the RESNET Apparel Store today!

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference offers an unique training on key areas involving building science, program delivery and energy code compliance.

The 2012 RESNET Conference core conference session list is now posted online. Click here to access the complete listing of conference sessions.

This year’s conference sessions include:

90 Break Out Sessions

The breakout sessions will feature a wide variety of topics addressing the hottest issues for the building performance industry. Sessions will be divided into the following topics:

• Business Development/Marketing
• Technical
• Ratings/Audits
• Programs/Incentives
• ENERGY STAR® Homes

Special Builders Track

This track will include sessions on using the HERS Index as a marketing tool, the need for a national home energy performance label, marketing energy efficiency to homeowners and a roundtable of builder success stories.

Special Sessions Offered by the Energy and Environmental Building Association (EEBA)

The 2011 RESNET Board of Directors Election is being conducted on-line.  On November 7, 2011 RESNET members were e-mailed the link for the on-line voting.  December 10, 2011 is the deadline for voting.  If you have not voted or misplaced the on-line ballot link, please e-mail sbaden@resnet.us.  The bios and statements of the candidates are posted at 2011 RESNET Board Election

After January 27, 2012 the cost of registering for the 2012 RESNET Conference will go up by $100.00.  Do not miss this opportunity.  Register for the conference today.  Register online by clicking on 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference Registration

Reflecting the growing awareness that RESNET is playing in the existing homes market, RESNET Executive Director Steve Baden has been appointed to the Western HVAC Performance Alliance’s Council of Advisors.

The Western HVAC Performance Alliance was established in 2009. Its mission is to provide input from the HVAC community to the Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) in the State of California in support of the goals of the State of California’s Long-Term Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan.

1. Maximize the many benefits of cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency services to consumers.
2. Minimize the use of gas and electricity via sustainable practice and programs.
3. Benefit the individuals and organizations that ably deliver the above to consumers and society.

Through this collaboration, the residential and small commercial HVAC industry will be transformed to ensure that technology, equipment, installation and maintenance are of the highest quality to promote energy efficiency and peak load reduction.

The alliance’s council of advisors is composed of representatives of trade associations, unions, utilities and standard setting organizations.  Besides RESNET other organizations on the Council of Advisors includes:

Trade Associations

• Air Conditioning Contractors of America
• Air Conditioning Trade Association
• Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigerating Institute
• Institute of Heating and Air Conditioning Industries
• Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contactor’s National Association

California Utilities

• Pacific Gas & Electric
• San Diego Gas & Electric
• Southern California Edison
• Southern California Gas
• Sacramento Municipal Utility District

Standard Setting Organizations

• ASHRAE
• International Code Council
• NATE
• BPI

Unions

• Sheet Metal Workers International Association
• Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders & HVAC Service Technicians

RESNET is undertaking an aggressive campaign to educate consumers on the importance of improving the energy performance of their homes and why they should use certified RESNET professionals.

The foundation to this effort is a new consumer page to RESNET’s web site.  The new site is cleaner and more consumer oriented look. The revised site makes it easier to find a RESNET professional member. It also features prominent links to information on the HERS Index, how to find a RESNET professional, how to get certified as a RESNET professional, consumer energy saving tips, and case studies

A key new feature of the new site is an interactive house that presents tips to improve a home’s energy performance.  The interactive house divides the house into the attic, basement, bathroom, bedroom, dining room, kitchen, living room and office.

Below is an example of the living room:

Catch the new site by clicking on RESNET

Fannie Mae has recently changed its Energy Improvement Mortgage (EIM) requirements to include a provision that the energy improvements to the home must be cost effective as measured by their Net Present Value (NPV), with positive values considered cost effective and negative values considered not cost effective. In other words, the present value of the energy cost savings must exceed the present value of the improvement costs.

Fannie Mae relies on RESNET for the calculation of NPV. Section 303.3.3 of the RESNET Standards addresses the calculation of a present value factor for the purposes of completing the previous requirements of Fannie Mae EEMs and EIMs. However, this calculation is insufficient for calculating the new Fannie Mae requirement for NPV.

RESNET has amended its standards to establish a set of standard procedures that can be uniformly used for the calculation of economic cost effectiveness parameters that are required (or likely to be required) by secondary mortgage market energy efficiency financing programs such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or FHA.

The revision underwent the RESNET standards ANSI compliant public review and comment process.  The amendment will go into effect on December 11, 2011.

To view the amendment click on RESNET Net Present Value Calculation

Hollandale Builders , a Northwest Indiana based homebuilder,  has entered into an agreement with the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to provide home buyers an important measurement of long-term energy performance of each new home Hollandale Builders builds.  The intent of the agreement is to raise consumers’ knowledge of new home energy performance.  Use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by Hollandale Builders from other homes for sale in the Northwest Indiana market.

Hollandale Builders builds homes in the Northwest Indiana area.  They have committed to have each and every home tested and will receive a HERS Index specific to that home.  This is not only an excellent quality assurance tool for the builder but also to the buyer of their homes.  The homes are tested and evaluated by a third party rater with no interest in the home other than its efficiency.   When comparing this home to other new homes be sure to request the HERS Index score for a true comparison.  These homes are more affordable to maintain, more durable, more comfortable, and have a higher resale value.    It makes sense to incorporate energy efficiency in the construction of all new homes – not only because it saves money but it reduces our use of precious natural resources.

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it.  For more information on the HERS Index go to http://www.resnet.us/home-energy-ratings

In making the commitment these builders been designated by RESNET as an RESNET Energy Smart Builder. RESNET Energy Smart Builders are leading the transformation of the housing towards high energy performance homes. These leading builders are committed to having all of their homes energy rated following RESNET’s stringent standards and marketing their homes HERS Index.

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it. For more information click on RESNET HERS Index

RESNET is interested in entering into similar agreements with other regional and local builders. Energy raters who have builder clients interested in entering into an agreement with RESNET should contact Steve Baden at sbaden@resnet.us

The listing of all builders who have made the commitment go to Builder HERS Index Commitment

There have been major breakthroughs in increasing the energy efficiency in operating residential pools and spas. This is particularly the case with pool and spa pumps.  The RESNET Technical Committee is in the process of amending RESNET’s standards to account for the pool and spa energy performance in rating a home’s energy efficiency.

RESNET has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) that will involve the pool and spa industry in developing the new standards and work to educate raters to be accurately rate their energy performance.

The MOU with APSP covers the following areas:

• Development of a Pool and Spa Industry Council of the RESNET Technical Committee. This council will guide the RESNET Technical Committee in developing the standard amendment.
• APSP will develop a training program for certified RESNET home energy raters to properly rate the energy efficiency of a home’s pool and spa features energy performance.
• RESNET will adopt a designation for its certified raters who have been trained to rate a home’s pool and spa’s energy performance. This designation will be similar to the current RESNET Green Rater designation.
• APSP will recruit its member contractors to be trained and certified as RESNET Energy Smart Contractors.

The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) is the world’s largest international trade association and leading industry advocate representing the swimming pool, spa, and hot tub industry. APSP members adhere to a code of business ethics and share a commitment to public health and safety. Our member companies include manufacturers, manufacturers’ agents, distributors, designers, builders, installers, retailers, and service professionals. APSP promotes professional best practices through education, certification, standards, research, and safety. For more information visit their web site at http://www.apsp.org/Public/AboutUs/AboutAPSP/index.cfm

Cold climate houses: getting to zero defects training!

Thu, Dec 8, 2011
Lake Lawn Resort
2400 East Geneva Street
Delavan, WI

Improve the performance, efficiency and durability of the homes you build. Uncover exactly what the issues are when building high performance homes in a cold climate—and receive unbiased information on the newest technologies and tested results to see details that you can use to assure better building performance.

Click on the following link for more information:

http://www.ecw.org/university/ecuevent.php?ecuid=431

This post was submitted by Lonna Kruse.

There is empirical evidence that instantaneous water heaters do not perform at their rated efficiency when compared to realistic hot water draw profiles. The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) procedure for establishing the Energy Factor prescribes six equal, hourly draws totaling 64.3 gallons during the first 5 hours of a 24-hour testing period. Occupants more commonly make dozens of smaller draws throughout a day. Instantaneous water heaters are subject to significant thermal loss directly following a draw. The DOE procedure does not adequately capture the totality of thermal loses stemming from typical residential use. Based on results of lab and field testing conducted by the David Energy Group, the California Energy Commission adopted into California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards the requirement that the code-compliance software apply an adjustment factor of 0.92 to the Energy Factor for gas, oil and electric instantaneous water heaters.

The RESNET Technical Committee has proposed an amendment to RESNET standards to adjust instantaneous water heaters efficiency.

The amendment is undergoing an ANSI compliant public review and comment process. Interested parties are encouraged to comment on the proposed amendment. Public comments on the proposed amendment will be accepted until Wednesday, December 14, 2011.

To submit your comments, click on Submitting Comments on Proposed Amendment

Comments are posted real time and you will be able to review comments that were submitted by clicking on Review Comments Submitted

To download the amendment, click on Proposed RESNET Standard Amendment

Only comments made through the online system will be accepted.

After the comment period, the appropriate RESNET committee will consider and document each of the comments submitted and make appropriate changes. The revised proposed amendments then will be submitted to the RESNET Standards Committee who will review the public comment process then recommend to the RESNET Board for adoption.

I have taken a job with a major company, so I’m shutting down my business and selling my equipment. Everything was purchased in May 2010. I’m selling a blower door, duct blaster, CO detector, combustible gas detector, and all accessories including storage/transportation bags for everything. The blower door was used about a dozen times. The duct blaster was used once on my home to verify it worked; it’s not been used since. I am asking $3750 for everything below:

Minneapolis Blower Door with DG700, Tectite software, cruise control cable

Duct Blaster with calibration plate and it’s own DG700

Foam blocks for sealing registers

Hose Kit for Blower Door/Duct Blaster

Smoke Puffer Kit

CO detector

Combustible gas detector

I paid over $5000 for all this equipment. I’ve priced it aggressively to sell quickly. The electronics may need calibration service from the manufacturer, which I think runs $75. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Thanks,

Ray Kaltenbach

719-684-3352

greenenvelopehomes@gmail.com

This post was submitted by Raymond Kaltenbach.

Practice makes perfect. That’s why Academy for Energy Efficiency Training uses Intercaz for our BPI Building Analyst classes. Intercaz is a new interactive simulation game designed for you to master the vast complexity of combustion safety testing. We expose you to far more appliances, venting, pressure values, and combustion appliance zone (CAZ) configurations than other training programs. Our hands-on field training and extensive practice in a fun 3D virtual environment better prepare you for the real-world scenarios you will face as an energy auditor.

Don’t take the risk of experiencing the setbacks so often experienced by taking an accelerated course.

You benefit from the combined power of:

• An experienced instructor
• Hands-on training in the field
• Extensive practice in a simulated environment
• Learning from your peers.

Register for our class this month in Dallas.

Tuition includes books, exam, and Intercaz simulation training.

P.S. Intercaz was shortlisted for Best Serious Game or Simulation for the E-Learning Age Awards.

This post was submitted by Terry Collins.

Everblue Training Institute offers comprehensive online and classroom training designed to help you succeed as a RESNET HERS Rater. We offer classes around the country and can bring training to you for corporate groups.

Visit our RESNET HERS RATER page to find a course near you.

Everblue is a veteran founded, accredited educational institution (edu) that has an extensive curriculum, that includes multiple BPI Certifications, Renewable Energy Training, Weatherization Training, RESNET HERS Rater, LEED Accredited Professional, NABCEP Solar Certification, Corporate Sustainability, and Carbon Accounting.

This post was submitted by Layla Thomas.

Feel free to embed this badge on your website or blog, and let everyone know you are attending the 2012 RESNET Conference!

Embed Code

<a href=”http://www.resnet.us/main/2012_conference” mce_href=”http://www.resnet.us/main/2012_conference” target=”_blank”><img src=”http://www.resnet.us/images/RESNET_conferencebadge.gif” mce_src=”http://www.resnet.us/images/RESNET_conferencebadge.gif” alt=”RESNET 2012 Conference” style=”border:none;” mce_style=”border: none;” width=”230px” height=”150px”></a>

Beazer Homes has entered into an agreement with the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) to provide new home buyers an important measurement of long-term energy performance of each new home the company builds.  The intent of the agreement is to raise consumers’ knowledge of new home energy performance by using RESNET’s HERS Index.  Use of the HERS Index will differentiate homes built by Beazer Homes from other homes for sale in the market.

Beazer Homes is one of the largest home builders in the U.S.  They build homes in Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.  Beazer builds 100% of their homes as ENERGY STAR.  For more information click on http://www.beazer.com

The RESNET HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home’s energy efficiency is measured. The HERS or Home Energy Rating System was developed by RESNET and is the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a home’s energy performance. Certified RESNET Home Energy Raters conduct inspections to verify a home’s energy performance and determine what improvements can be made to increase it.  For more information click on RESNET HERS Index

Steve Baden, executive director of RESNET lauded Beazer Homes’ leadership for improving the energy performance of new homes.  “Today’s new homes are much more efficient in comparison to homes built just a decade ago.  These homes are more affordable to maintain, comfortable and have a higher value.  Thanks to leaders like Beazer Homes, builders are increasing the energy performance of the homes they build.  This is good for consumers, the environment, the local economy and our national security.”

Stop Losing Business to Your Local Competition.
Create a Website Strategy that Works.

Most businesses never make it through the first hurdle when their ideal prospect begins to look for their products and services. How much business are you losing because of your website?

Academy for Energy Efficiency Training is waiving tuition for the first 50 persons
to register for its Do-It-Yourself Website
Audit online course.

Only one type of business per metropolitan area is allowed. This will ensure you are free to openly discuss strategies of how to best position your company to win over local competitors. You can’t develop a great website without sizing up your competition.

This post was submitted by Sheila Ferguson.

The 2012 RESNET Building Performance Conference offers an unique training on key areas involving building science, program delivery and energy code compliance.

The 2012 RESNET Conference will have more pre-conference trainings available than ever before! You can earn another specialized certification before the conference even begins! The pre-conference training sessions include 2-day, 1-day and half day courses.

This year’s conference will offer:

Two Day Courses (Saturday 2/25 and Sunday 2/26):
Manual J Training
Energy Efficient Mortgage Partner Training
Texas Comprehensive Energy Auditor Training
LEED for Home Green Rater Training
2009 IECC Code Fundamentals
Train the Trainer on Principals for Educating Adults

One Day Course (Saturday 2/25):
Energy Smart Contractor Training

Half Day Courses (Sunday 2/26):
Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance Inspector Training
WaterSense Provider Training
REM/Rate Training
HERS 101

Registration for some courses is limited, so sign up today! Click here for a complete description of pre-conference sessions.

The pre-conference activities are great training and networking opportunities. Register for the 2012 RESNET Conference today so you don’t miss out on the amazing pre-conference courses! Click here to register now!

Please call me at 281 777 6714, if interested. Leaving the industry and do not need equipment anymore. Fairly new. Only been used in 5-10 energy audits!

This post was submitted by Coy Walker.

RESNET Executive Director Steve Baden and Betsy Gallacher Vice-President, Marketing, ICYNENE

RESNET and Icynene Inc., manufacturer of spray foam insulation, have agreed work together to promote improved home energy performance in the United States. The two organizations will work collaboratively to meet this goal by promoting building science to achieve long-term sustainable energy savings for homeowners.

Icynene Inc. and RESNET will educate Icynene Licensed Contractors who will work together with RESNET-certified Raters. This relationship will help ensure optimal insulating and air-sealing, achieved with Icynene spray foam insulation, is combined with proper mechanical ventilation and performance improvements throughout home construction to maximize energy efficiency, indoor air quality and overall home comfort.

“It is exciting to partner with Icynene,” says RESNET’s Executive Officer, Steve Baden, “Consumers are looking for effective ways to improve their homes’ energy performance that is dependable and seamless.  Having Icynene’s Contractors team up with RESNET home energy raters and other Energy Smart contractors meets this need.”

Icynene’s next move will be to offer RESNET’s energy training course as part of the Company’s training program, to assist its Contractors in becoming EnergySmart. “By augmenting their training portfolio with the EnergySmart designation, Icynene Contractors will strengthen their reputations as knowledgeable and trusted insulation/air barrier specialists,” explains Betsy Gallacher, VP of Marketing at Icynene.

Working with RESNET will help Icynene Inc. continue to push forward with its effort to support the advancement of policies for new energy-efficient construction and energy-efficient retrofits for both homes and commercial buildings. This is the latest in a series of strategic moves whereby Icynene is working to support performance-based contracting in the retrofit sector as well as builders promoting highly efficient new homes using the HERS index.

Icynene Inc. offers a portfolio of light and medium density spray foam insulation products that are designed to help create Healthier, Quieter, More Energy Efficient^® homes and buildings. Since 1986, Icynene has been the insulation of choice for green building around the world, setting a standard for energy performance, comfort and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Icynene’s products are distributed (throughout North America, Australia, Asia and Europe) through a network of Icynene Licensed Contractors and Distributors who perform installation on-site for each custom application.  For more information, visit www.Icynene.com