Understanding Home Energy Score

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) developed a national rating system for home energy efficiency called the Home Energy Score. Similar in function to a vehicle’s mile-per-gallon rating, a Home Energy Score provides an objective scale to measure a home’s energy efficiency as it compares to other homes. Additionally, the Home Energy Score system provides homeowners with tips and suggestions for improving their home’s energy efficiency. Homeowners are urged to evaluate the energy efficiency of their homes and consider implementing the DOE’s suggestions for improvement.

Home Energy Score Assessment

The first step toward receiving a Home Energy Score is to have the home evaluated by a Home Energy Score Qualified Assessor. These Assessors are specially qualified, and each Assessor receives special certification from the Department of Energy. Qualified Assessors undergo thorough training and possess extensive knowledge of the Home Energy Score system. These individuals are well-versed in the Home Energy Score system guidelines, assessment points, and how homes perform with these factors accordingly.

Scoring System

When conducting an assessment, the Assessor will score each home on a 1-to-10 scale. A score of 1 indicates a need for extensive energy improvements, while a 10 indicates excellent energy performance. After the assessment is complete, the Qualified Assessor will provide the homeowners with several energy improvement recommendations, as well as the associated estimates of cost savings.

Home Energy Score Benefits

The Home Energy Score is in place to help homeowners learn more about their home’s energy consumption, as well as understand how current consumption can be reduced. By reducing home energy use, homeowners can experience a range of benefits in energy costs, home functionality, and environmental friendliness. Statistics show that efforts such as the Home Energy Score can help homeowners save as much as 20 percent on their utility bills simply by implementing more energy efficient tools, habits, and systems.

Home Energy Score Partners

The Department of Energy has teamed up with a number of organizations and entities in order to make the Home Energy Score more widely available to U.S. homeowners. Home Energy Score partners include local and state governments, non-profit organizations, and utilities across the country. The Department of Energy’s website provides the full list of Home Energy Score partners, along with descriptions of each partner’s residential energy efficiency efforts.

To learn about Home Energy Score partners in your state, click here to visit the DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.