Proposed Addendum 35 Clarifies the requirements for RESNET accreditation of energy rating software. Currently, Chapter 1, Section 102, of the RESNET Standards clearly outline the Accreditation Criteria for Rating Quality Assurance Provider Accreditation, but lacks similar details for accreditation of energy rating software. Section 103 simply states that “All HERS® Software Tools shall be accredited by RESNET.” Chapter 3, Section 302.2 defines “Approved Software Rating Tool” as one that “Shall mean a RESNET-accredited HERS® Rating Tool that has been tested and approved in accordance with RESNET Publication 002-15 and that is listed in the RESNET National Registry of Accredited Rating Software Programs https://www.resnet.us/professional/programs/energy_rating_software” This Addendum seeks to provide the clear criteria regarding the accreditation process for energy rating software, in Chapter 1, rather than in a definition. It also assigns a specific RESNET Committee with oversight of Publication 002. Additionally, while Chapter 9 has multiple sections related to Ethics and Compliance Complaints, they are limited in scope to Quality Assurance for Rating Quality Assurance Providers, and there are no similar options for appeals or complaints related to energy rating software. This Addendum seeks to provide an avenue for appeals to be submitted, identifies a committee to oversee them, and in the interest of providing due process, clarifies that accreditation cannot be withheld or delayed until the investigation surrounding the appeal is completed. The first draft, PDS-01, of proposed Addendum 35 is submitted for public comment for 30 days beginning August 8, 2018. The changes to the MINHERS® are indicated by strike through/underline text in red print in draft PDS-01. To review and comment on the Draft follow the links below. Draft PDS-01 of proposed Addendum 35: Software Accreditation Comment on Draft PDS-01, MINHERS® Addendum 35 View comments on Draft PDS-01, MINHERS® Addendum 35 Comments will be accepted only on the changes to the MINHERS® indicated by the strike through/underlined text in red print in draft PDS-01. The public comment period will be open for 30 days beginning August 8, 2018 through September 7, 2018. After the comment period, RESNET Standard Development Committee 300 will consider and document each of the comments submitted and make appropriate changes. Any substantive changes to draft PDS-01 will be provided to the public for comment. When there are no more substantive changes the proposed final amendment will be submitted to the RESNET Standard Management Board for final approval.
