New rating system allows buyers to compare estimated annual energy costs, consumption for different homes

Earth Advantage Institute, a nonprofit green building resource that has certified more than 11,000 homes, and the Passive House Institute U.S. (PHIUS) will collaborate on developing an Energy Performance Score (EPS) label that can be issued for any home certified to the Passive House building energy standard, according to a press release from the Earth Advantage Institute.

The plan is part of an overall collaborative effort in the residential building sector that will also include education courses for professionals and consumers. The cooperation is expected to boost the adoption rate of Passive House-certified homes.

The EPS is a miles-per-gallon-style rating system for homes that allows buyers to compare estimated annual energy costs and energy consumption among different homes. It also provides an incentive for homeowners to undertake energy upgrades.

More than 1900 homes have been rated in the Northwest, and pilot programs are underway in Massachusetts, Virginia and Alabama. The EPS offers an energy efficiency metric for appraisers, lenders, insurers and other sectors providing services for the home industry.

For more information: www.earthadvantage.org/programs/homes/energy-performance-score/