Proposed New ENERGY STAR Guidelines are Available for Comment Through July 10, 2009

EPA is revising the guidelines for ENERGY STAR qualified homes to ensure that homes that earn the label will continue to represent a meaningful improvement in energy efficiency over homes built to code or standard practices. These new guidelines, referred to as ENERGY STAR 2011, will help EPA meet its goal of transforming the housing industry to build homes with less environmental impact and increase homeowner benefits, including lower energy bills, improved comfort, better indoor air quality, and enhanced durability.

You can find the ENERGY STAR 2011 guidelines, resources, and a link to submit comments by visiting www.energystar.gov/homes and clicking on "Proposed Guidelines Released" under "Resources for Partners." The following information is included:

The rationale behind the changes in ENERGY STAR 2011
Background documents explaining the methodology for estimating energy savings and cost effectiveness
A Frequently Asked Questions web page providing basic information on ENERGY STAR 2011
Online presentations by Sam Rashkin, R.A., National Director of ENERGY STAR for Homes, explaining key aspects of ENERGY STAR 2011
A schedule of Q&A sessions with Sam Rashkin

EPA will accept comments through Friday, July 10, 2009. A summary of all comments submitted with the names of the submitters, unless a submitter requests to remain anonymous, will be posted after the comment period ends. Once the comment period is closed, EPA will review the comments and develop responses and revisions.

If you have questions about ENERGY STAR 2011 or the comment process, please contact us at energystarhomes@energystar.gov. Thank you for taking the time to comment.