Energy Conservation and ENERGY STAR

Introduction

The design of the Eastport Renewable Energy Home puts as much emphasis on Energy Conservation as it does on producing energy from Renewable sources.

HERS Rating

The ENERGY STAR labeled home program, run by the EPA, sets standards for Energy Efficiency with consideration of the whole home’s energy consumption. Part of this program includes a HERS (Home Energy Rating Systems) rating, which uses a standardized computer-based rating system to determine how Energy Efficient a home is. One “point” is assigned for a five percent reduction in energy consumption. A “regular” home (meets Current NYS Energy code) is given a baseline score of 80, and a score of 86 is needed to qualify a home as meeting ENERGY STAR guidelines (30% reduction in consumption). The home must also pass numerous other tests which include measuring building air leakage (blower door test), duct leakage and passing a thermal barrier inspection to make sure the building envelope is exceptionally insulated and blocked to prevent energy robbing drafts and voids.

Hampton's Home HERS Rating

The many unique energy conservation features integrated into the Eastport Renewable Energy Home’s design and construction have allowed it to far exceed even the standards for an ENERGY STAR Labeled Home. The home achieved a HERS rating of 94.6 and a HERS index of 27, which places it amongst the most efficient structures, and is a Tier 5 (of 5) Model Home participant of New York State’s ENERGY STAR Labeled Home program.

Some of the incorporated Energy Conservation features:

• Insulation and Building Envelope
• Lighting, Appliances and Fixtures
• Passive Solar Construction and use of Natural Light

More information on the EnergyStar Labeled Home program can be found at: www.energystar.gov

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