EPA Launches ENERGY STAR NextGen Certification for Residential Buildings
The program aims to revolutionize energy efficiency in residential buildings.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- May 14, 2024
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unveiled the ENERGY STAR NextGen Certified Homes and Apartments program. This initiative aims to enhance energy efficiency in new residential constructions nationwide. According to a recent release, the program—funded through President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act—looks to boost energy savings and curb emissions by promoting the adoption of advanced technologies within the building sector.
“President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act is addressing climate challenges head-on and accelerating the adoption of clean, affordable technologies,” EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said in a statement. “By collaborating with developers and home builders nationwide, ENERGY STAR NextGen is set to act as a catalyst for the construction of new, energy-efficient homes and apartment buildings. Strategic partnerships like this are not just cutting costs for American families and greenhouse gas emissions. They’re paving the way for a clean energy future for current and future generations.”
The ENERGY STAR NextGen certification will equip residences with energy efficiency features such as heat pumps, heat pump water heaters and electric cooking appliances. Additionally, it will endorse the inclusion of residential electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Homes meeting this standard are projected to be 20 percent more efficient than typical code-level constructions and contribute to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Early adopters of the ENERGY STAR NextGen specification include Beazer Homes in Maryland, GreenSmith Builders in Minnesota, New Tradition Homes and Quantum Equities, LLC in Washington, and Thrive Home Builders in Colorado. Furthermore, various utilities have announced initial incentives to encourage builders to adhere to the certification criteria.
To learn more about the ENERGY STAR NextGen certification, visit the official website.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor for Environmental Protection.