New Energy Star Specification for Home Plans

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently drafting a new specification for home plans called Designed to Earn Energy Star. EPA expects to complete the specification by the end of 2007, after two rounds of comments from stakeholders. The current version of the specification requires home plans to be accompanied by information on the energy efficiency of mechanical systems, windows, lighting fixtures, and the building envelope, among other home features. Once the specification is complete, architects and designers will be able to sign a partnership agreement with EPA that will allow them to use the Energy Star logo on plans for houses that meet the specifications. Those interested in the program should contact Zak Shadid, operations coordinator for the Energy Star Homes program, at shadid.zachary@epa.gov or visit www.energystar.gov/homes/.