A NEW WAY TO COMPARE “GREEN” PLANS
Thanks to the Earth Advantage Institute, this year’s home plans can be examined for their energy-saving potential. Here’s a key to reading the scores.
Estimated total annual energy use of this home, if operated under “typical” climate conditions in the state of Washington. The score is reflected as kilowatt-hour equivalents (kwh); the projected energy use is calculated using the fuel mix the home is designed to use.
Annual use of electricity in kwh and the approximate cost for that usage.
Annual gas use in therms and the approximate cost for that usage.
Estimated average energy use for a single family detached home built to state code in Washington. This figure was estimated from actual energy use statistics.
Estimate of the carbon emissions associated with the specific mix of fuel consumption estimated for the Energy Score. Combustion fuel emission factors are based on EPA values, and the emission factor for electricity is based on EPA values for the Northwest region.
Estimated energy use of this home plan, if built to conform to the 2009 ICC International Residential Code. The plan orientation and form of the building is not altered.
Benchmark for the performance level that Washington homes need to reach on average in order for the State to reach Architecture 2030 design goals as a whole.
Construction of a home accounts for about 6 percent of the total energy that home will consume over its lifespan, if it’s built with a wood frame.
WHAT IS THE ENERGY PERFORMANCE SCORE?
A third-party certified score, the EPS is a tool for home energy assessment. Anyone may use the EPS assessment methodology for evaluating energy performance and upgrades of a home, but only a certified EPS analyst has been trained and qualified to conduct an EPS. More info:
www.earthadvantage.org
04.2012
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