Similar to the miles per gallon rating for cars, a group in Oregon has created Energy Performance Score to allow home buyers a way of measuring the energy efficiency of their new house. For all participating homes, both the energy usage and carbon emissions are calculated from electricity and natural gas consumed. Other factors taken into account include insulation, appliances and the regional weather. In all, the audit collects and analyzes 32 data points. These numbers are then compared with the state average, and potential upgrades are presented for how to improve the score. When multiple houses are scored, it allows buyers to evaluate how much they can expect to spend on energy at a given house. The program was developed by Earth Advantage Institute and is already

in effect for new homes in Oregon, through the support of Energy Trust of Oregon, on a volunteer basis. Seattle also used it for a pilot program, with findings released in August 2009 , and other cities, including Chicago and Houston, are looking at the initiative as well. The EPS is also being marketed to those that aren’t selling a home, as it sets a baseline for expected performance. You can compare the EPS to your monthly utility bills and find out if your average usage is higher or lower than the expected energy use for your home. Read more Green Building to Increase in 2010, Beyond Winterize Your Home The Hottest Trend in Eco Housing

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New System Rates Home Energy Efficiency