An Introduction to the ENERGY STAR and Zero Energy Ready Homes Multifamily New Construction Programs

EPA's ENERGY STAR and DOE's Zero Energy Ready Home multifamily new construction programs are experiencing unprecedented interest from builders and developers. Many stakeholders are interested in leveraging the updated 45L federal tax credit, which is now linked to certification under the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction program and the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home Multifamily program. These specifications are also referenced in numerous utility and affordable housing programs throughout the country. Further, many builders and developers with sustainability goals find that these two programs establish a high level of performance and the certification demonstrating compliance is invaluable to consumers seeking market transparency. As a result, more builders than ever before are seeking to understand these two programs. This educational session will introduce you to the multifamily new construction versions of both programs – explaining which home types are eligible to participate, providing an overview of the key elements of the requirements, identifying different compliance pathways, defining the fundamental components of the 45L credit, and discussing how builders can get started.

Learning Objectives
1. Understand the key elements of the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction program requirements.
2. Understand the key elements of the Zero Energy Ready Homes Multifamily program requirements.
3. Learn how certification to these two programs is a prerequisite for earning the updated 45L New Energy Efficient Home Credit.
4. Review the steps for getting started with both programs.

Presenters
Gayathri Vijayakumar, Principal Mechanical Engineer, Steven Winter Associates
Sarah Cok, Building Science Consultant, Newport Partners, LLC