Energy Star
Certification
From conception to completion, from energy model to final blower test, we are there every step of the way.
What is Energy Star Certification?
Energy Star is the EPA's nationally recognized certification program for energy-efficient buildings. To earn the label, a home or multifamily building must be independently verified by a credentialed third party, confirming it was designed and built to perform meaningfully beyond code minimum.
Certification adds measurable market value, qualifies projects for utility rebates and green financing, and demonstrates a commitment to quality construction that buyers, renters, and lenders increasingly expect.
Energy Star is also a prerequisite for DOE Zero Energy Ready Home, making it a natural entry point for projects pursuing multiple high-performance designations.
Third-Party Verified
Certification requires an accredited HERS Rater or approved MRO to conduct field inspections and testing. No self-certification is permitted.
Multi-Program Alignment
Energy Star certification is a prerequisite for DOE Zero Energy Ready Home and aligns with Indoor airPlus, reducing total documentation overhead when pursuing multiple programs.
From Design to Certificate
We manage program registration, design review, field verification, testing, and documentation from initial plans through final certificate issuance.
Energy Star for New Homes
Energy Star for New Homes applies to single-family and low-rise multifamily buildings up to three stories. Certification requires a HERS Rater to verify insulation, air sealing, windows, HVAC, and ventilation, and to conduct blower door and duct leakage testing.
We handle registration, all required field inspections, testing, and documentation from design through final certificate, coordinating directly with the EPA on your behalf.
Energy Star for New Homes is a prerequisite for DOE Zero Energy Ready Home, Indoor airPlus, and many utility rebate programs in NJ and PA.
- Single-family and low-rise multifamily (1–3 stories)
- HERS Rater verification required
- Blower door & duct leakage testing
- Thermal enclosure inspection
- HVAC & ventilation verification
- EPA program registration & submission
- Prerequisite for DOE Zero Energy Ready Home
Energy Star Multifamily New Construction
Energy Star Multifamily New Construction (MFNC) covers buildings four stories and above. Version 2, required for permits issued on or after January 1, 2025, introduced stricter airtightness requirements and updated verification protocols.
Verification must be performed by an accredited HERS Rater or an approved Multifamily Rating Organization (MRO). We work regularly with MROs on larger projects and manage all documentation through to final certificate issuance.
With 347+ certified units, we know what it takes to get multifamily projects across the finish line efficiently.
- Mid-rise & high-rise multifamily (4+ stories)
- HERS Rater or MRO verification required
- Unit compartmentalization blower door testing
- Whole-building airtightness testing
- HVAC & ventilation commissioning
- Thermal enclosure verification
- Required for permits issued Jan 1, 2025+
New Jersey & Pennsylvania Rebates
Energy Star certification unlocks access to rebate programs in both NJ and PA. As an NJCEP Partner, we help clients identify and qualify for applicable incentives as part of the certification process.
Rebates for insulation, air sealing, HVAC, and ventilation improvements in qualifying residential and multifamily projects.
Supplemental rebates for Energy Star certified new construction, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and envelope improvements.
Additional rebates for heat pump water heaters, high-efficiency HVAC, and projects achieving Energy Star for New Homes certification.
Rebates on insulation, air sealing, and high-efficiency HVAC equipment for qualifying residential and multifamily buildings in the PECO service territory.
Home energy rebates for high-efficiency heat pumps, insulation, and air sealing improvements for PPL customers.
Rebates for high-efficiency furnaces, water heaters, and insulation upgrades for Columbia Gas customers.
Programs & Standards
Required for projects with permits issued on or after January 1, 2025. Introduced stricter airtightness requirements in colder climate zones, updated verification protocols, and expanded recognition for projects pursuing DOE Zero Energy Ready Home simultaneously.
Formerly known as ZERH. The DOE has rebranded and expanded the program nationally. Requires Energy Star as a prerequisite and adds high-performance envelopes, efficient mechanical systems, and solar-ready provisions.
EPA program for superior indoor air quality: low-VOC materials, radon mitigation, enhanced filtration, and controlled ventilation. Can be layered onto Energy Star and DOE ZERH projects.
Energy Star MFNC uses the HERS Index or equivalent energy rating number. An accredited HERS Rater or MRO is required to verify compliance using an approved energy model.
Our Verification Process
Program Registration
We register your project with Energy Star and, if applicable, DOE Zero Energy Ready Home, establishing compliance requirements and documentation upfront.
Design Review
We review drawings, energy models, and specifications to confirm compliance targets are achievable and flag any gaps before construction begins.
Thermal Enclosure Verification
On-site inspection of insulation installation, air barrier continuity, and window and door installation, required for both Energy Star and DOE ZERH.
HVAC & Ventilation Verification
Verification of mechanical system installation and commissioning, including HVAC sizing, duct tightness, ventilation rates, and distribution system performance.
Airtightness Testing
Blower door testing for each unit (compartmentalization) and/or whole-building air leakage per Energy Star and DOE ZERH requirements.
Certification Submission
We compile all checklists, test reports, and supporting documentation and submit on your behalf, coordinating with Energy Star and DOE through certificate issuance.
In the Field
What's Included
We manage every deliverable required for Energy Star MFNC and DOE Zero Energy Ready Home certification, from design review through final certificate.
- Project registration with EPA and DOE programs
- Energy model review and verification
- Thermal Enclosure System (TES) checklist for all site visits
- HVAC System Quality Installation (ACCA Manual J/S/D) verification
- Ventilation system commissioning and airflow verification
- Unit compartmentalization blower door testing
- Water heating and distribution system verification
- DOE ZERH solar-ready and mechanical system verification
- All documentation compiled and submitted on your behalf
Experience Across Multifamily Programs
We have certified over 347 Energy Star units and 25 PHIUS-certified units. With a Master's degree in Construction Management and deep experience in multifamily construction, we understand both the certification requirements and the practical realities of getting buildings built right.
We work with builders and developers to coordinate program documentation efficiently, so certification doesn't slow down your project.
Common Questions
What changed with Energy Star MFNC v2?
Energy Star Multifamily New Construction version 2 became required for projects with permits issued on or after January 1, 2025. The update introduced stricter airtightness requirements in colder climate zones, updated verification protocols, and improved alignment with DOE Zero Energy Ready Home. Projects that registered under v1 prior to the deadline may continue on that version.
What is the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program, and what happened to ZERH?
The DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program is the current name for what was previously called ZERH (Zero Energy Ready Home). The DOE rebranded and expanded the program in 2024 as part of a national rollout. The requirements are largely the same: Energy Star certification as a prerequisite, a high-performance envelope, efficient mechanical systems, and solar-ready provisions. The updated program includes improved documentation and expanded recognition across all climate zones.
Do we need a HERS Rater, or can any third party verify?
Energy Star MFNC requires verification by either an accredited HERS Rater (for buildings three stories or fewer under residential provisions) or an approved Multifamily Rating Organization (MRO) for larger buildings. We are an accredited HERS Rater and work regularly with MROs for larger multifamily projects.
Can Energy Star and DOE ZERH be certified simultaneously?
Yes, and we recommend it. DOE Zero Energy Ready Home requires Energy Star as a prerequisite, so the field verification, testing, and documentation overlap significantly. Pursuing both programs together adds minimal overhead while substantially increasing the market value and recognition of the project.
What airtightness is required for multifamily units under Energy Star?
Energy Star MFNC requires individual unit compartmentalization testing. The 2021 IECC (§ R402.4.1.2) sets a maximum of 0.3 CFM50 per square foot of unit enclosure area at 50 Pa for buildings up to three stories. Each dwelling unit must pass independently. Sampling is not permitted.
When should we bring you onto the project?
As early as possible, ideally during design development. Early engagement allows us to confirm program requirements, review the energy model for feasibility, and identify potential field verification challenges before construction locks in details that are costly to change.
Ready to Certify Your Project?
Share your project details and we will confirm the right certification approach within one business day.
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