RESNET Ratings provides a relative energy use index called the HERS Index. The Index value assigned to a home indicates how well its energy efficiency compares to a hypothetical home built to the specifications of the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code. In Southeast Michigan, an energy efficient home would earn an HERS Index value of 85 or lower. The analysis that produces the Index value assists the Rater in preparing a set of recommendations for cost-effective improvements which could increase the energy efficiency and comfort of the home.
RESNET's standards are officially recognized by the U.S. mortgage industry for capitalizing a building's energy performance in the mortgage loan, certification of "White Tags" for private financial investors, and by the federal government for verification of building energy performance for such programs as federal tax incentives, the Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR program and the U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program.
RESNET standards encompass three areas:
- Software accreditation achieved by passing a battery of software verification tests developed by U.S. National Laboratories and RESNET
- Definition of knowledge base and skill sets that a rater must demonstrate through passing an online RESNET National Rater Test
- A quality assurance evaluation program under which certified Quality Assurance Designees must annually independently verify internal consistency of a minimum 10% of all building input files and independently field verify the accuracy of a minimum of 1% of each certified Rater's homes
How are Raters Certified?
- Knowledge base and skill sets defined by RESNET Standards
- Training Providers are accredited by RESNET
- Curricula approval
- Instructors certified by RESNET (must pass examination)
- Rater candidates must pass national online test
- Rater candidates must perform 5 ratings under the supervision of RESNET certified rater
- Rater may then be RESNET certified
- To maintain their certification, RESNET certified raters are required to obtain continuing education credits through RESNET approved training and education programs