How New Homes Earn the ENERGY STAR

To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), making them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.  Homes achieve this level of performance through a combination of energy-efficient improvements, including,

• Effective Insulation Systems
• High-Performance Windows
• Tight Construction and Ducts
• Efficient Heating and Cooling Equipment
• ENERGY STAR Qualified Lighting and Appliances

To ensure that a home meets ENERGY STAR guidelines, third-party verification by a certified Home Energy Rater (or equivalent) is required.  This Rater works closely with the builder throughout the construction process to help determine the needed energy-saving equipment and construction techniques and conduct required on-site diagnostic testing and inspections to document that the home is eligible to earn the ENERGY STAR label...

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.nh_verification_process