In a unique approach to optimizing the benefits of energy codes and ensuring greater code compliance, Vermont established the use of their state HERS program as a code compliance mechanism along with builder self-certification. Their new, mandatory energy code may lead to the first successful statewide integration of HERS and energy codes, since they have no traditional statewide code enforcement system but do have a very successful home energy rating program with energy raters in many communities. Ratings help increase competition among rated homes by providing a basis for comparison. Ratings provide the economic data necessary to make tradeoffs among competing housing components, i.e., more efficient windows versus increased wall insulation. Energy ratings provide a comparative economic analysis that is more easily understood by buyers, lenders and appraisers and can be prominently displayed by sellers.
Energy ratings give an overall assessment of the whole house versus individual components.
Most ratings are computer-based, allowing raters to perform complex analysis with relative ease. Performance analysis encourages design beyond prescriptive code requirements. Energy raters can reduce the workload and the number of public code inspection personnel required. Integrating HERS and codes can the shift cost of code compliance from the public to the private sector. Building performance professionals, working with code officials, can help introduce building science concepts to the housing industry.