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RESNET

2005 RESNET Building Performance Conference

Conference Sessions

2005 RESNET ConferenceFebruary 28 - March 2, 2005
Plaza San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas

Pre-Conference Sessions
Saturday, February 26, 2005

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
RESNET National Rater Challenge Test
Kansas Building Science Institute
Conference Center Room B

RESNET's national home energy rating standards require that all currently certified raters must successfully pass the RESNET national home energy rater test by January 1, 2008. The Kansas Building Science Institute will be offering a tutorial session and proctoring of the RESNET rater test. Individuals interested in taking the challenge must register in advance with the Kansas Building Science Institute. For more information contact Doug Walter at kbsi@flinthills.com

Sunday, February 27, 2004

10:00 a.m. - Noon

RESNET Rating Software Testing Committee Meeting
Latienda Room

1:00 - 2:30 p.m.

"HERS Industry 101" - Introduction to the Rating Business
Lead Presenter:
Daran Wastchak, D.R. Wastchak LLC
Conference Center Room B

Will provide to new to the rating industry a "rating as a business 101" and cover such topics as: what HERS® and RESNET are, overview of rating standards, difference between a rater and provider, overview of the accreditation procedures, overview of the rating software options, and an overview of the rating code of ethics and standards of practice.

How to Effectively Communicate Enhancements to the National Rating Standards to Your Clients
Presenters:
Claudia Brovick, RESNET
Lee O'Neal, NSpects
Latienda Room

In 2006 there will be a number of changes to the national home energy rating standards. The changes will effect on points are assigned in many parts of the nation.
RESNET has adopted and is implementing an outreach effort to provide tools to raters in explaining the changes to their clients. This session would be a "train the trainer" opportunity for the rating industry.

1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

REM/Rate Advanced Users Workshop
Presenter:
Dave Roberts, Architectural Energy Corporation
Conference Center Room C

This session is specifically designed for those raters who have previous experience using Architectural Energy Corporation's (AEC) REM/Rate home energy rating software. The session will be led by David R. Roberts, P.E., a Senior Engineer at AEC who has been involved with the development of the REM/Rate software for over 13 years. The session will cover some of the more obscure, yet powerful features of the software - batch processing, customizing reports, data output options, library management, and more. Bring your questions and suggestions, there will be opportunities to address both.

American Lung Association Health House Training
Presenter:
Steve Klossner, American Lung Association
Conference Center Room D

The American Lung Association is sponsoring the Health House Project that takes a whole house approach to ensuring a new home is free from polluting materials that can create poor indoor air quality.

3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

RESNET Board of Directors Meeting
Cavalier Room

Monday, February 28, 2004

7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Registration & Continental Breakfast - Exhibits Open
Exhibit Area - Hidalgo Ballroom A

8:30 a.m. - Noon

Opening Session
Hidalgo Ballrooms B & C

Welcome from RESNET President
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center

"Prospering in a Time of Change"
Steve Baden, RESNET

Presentation of RESNET Leadership Awards
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center

Fannie Mae Update
Robert Sahadi, Fannie Mae

Winning with ENERGY STAR Homes
David Lee, Environmental Protection Agency

U.S. Department of Energy Update
Edward Pollock, Department of Energy

Overview of Enhancements of National Home Energy Rating Standards
Steve Baden, RESNET
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center
Dave Roberts, Architectural Energy Corporation

Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Lunch
Conference Center Courtyard

NE HERS Alliance Board Meeting
Conference Center Room B

Special Lunch Session

"Home Performance Protocols for Training and Quality Assurance"
Presenter:
Greg Thomas, Performance Systems Development, Inc.
Conference Center Room C
This session will review the detailed set of Home Performance protocols that resulted from the California Energy Commission's PIER Whole House Contractor research project. The materials were developed by Performance Systems Development in a joint effort with the coordinators of the California Building Performance Contractor's Association Home Performance with Energy Star program. These protocols incorporate all the functional aspects of whole house building performance, including technical investigation, data interpretation, installation, remediation, and a full range of related business practices. They are designed to disseminate critical information on building performance techniques in a way that allows for practical application in the field by contractors and as a foundation for trainers or program managers. This session is appropriate for both technical and non-technical audiences.

Break Out Session 1
1:30 - 3:00 p.m.

"Selling A Higher Quality Home" - The Power of Adding Value Through The Energy Efficient Mortgage (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Michelle Desiderio, Fannie Mae
Presenter:
James Taylor, Fannie Mae
Hidalgo Ballrooms B & C

The focus on energy efficient mortgages in the past has centered on increased loan qualification for purchasing an energy efficient home. Too often the added value in purchasing an energy efficient home is overlooked. This added value is a tool for builders to offer more upgrades to a home buyer. Through an energy efficient mortgage one can afford upgrades as higher quality cabinets because of a home's energy efficiency. This session will explore this feature that is too often overlooked.

The House as a System (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
David Keefe, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation
Cavalier Room

An improvement to one part of a home can sometimes cause unanticipated effects on another part of the house system. This session focuses on becoming able to predict and/or diagnose these effects, primarily in order to prevent the negative ones.

Affordable Housing and ENERGY STAR: A Good Sell?
Moderator:
Stephanie Harmon, Progress & Associates
Presenters:
Les Bluestone,
Blue Sea Construction
Andrew Padian, Steven Winter Associates
Conference Center Room D

What are the positive selling points of ENERGY STAR to an affordable housing developer in the South Bronx, or are other urban areas? Learn how a veteran affordable housing developer went to ENERGY STAR kicking and screaming, and came out of the process with the highest rated homes in New York state in 2003 and continues to build at or above ENERGY STAR standards in all of his affordable housing. What are the selling points, and how do you present this to an affordable housing developer?

"Leading in a Time of Change" - How the Amendments to the Rating Standards Effect the Responsibility of Rating Providers
Moderator:
Kelly Parker, Guaranteed Watt Saver Systems
Presenters:
Mark Jansen, Energy Efficient Homes Midwest
C.T. Loyd, The Nelrod Company
Greg Nahn, Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation
Conference Center Room C

The proposed changes to the national rating standards involves a number of changes in the administration of rating programs including clearer defined quality assurance procedures. This session would provide an overview to rating providers on the added responsibilities that are required.

High Rise Multifamily, Affordable Housing, and Public Housing Authorities: New Markets for Multifamily Rating Services
Moderator
Brannon King, DPIS Engineering
Presenters:
Charles Erlich, Heschong Mahone Group, Inc.
Richard Faesy, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation
Julieann Summerford, Heschong Mahone Group, Inc.
Conference Center Room B

This session would begin with a brief review of the changes to California's Title 24 energy standards taking effect on October 1, 2005, as they affect the work of new construction HERS raters in California with an emphasis on multifamily dwellings. Presenters include energy efficiency experts and housing authority representatives. The presentation will describe new market opportunities revolving around affordable multifamily housing across the country. It will describe the unique role that Public Housing Authorities play. The presentation will also cover the California Public Utilities sponsored program that defines the vital role that HERS raters play in establishing the baseline and upgraded energy efficiency levels of existing affordable housing. The presenters will also cover the efforts of the High Rise Residential National Working Group in its collaboration with EPA to develop and ENERGY STAR label for buildings greater than 3 stories tall.

Break Out Session 2
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.

"Where Do We Go From Here?" - What Happen to the Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credits and What is the Prospects for the Future (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Kathy Spigarelli, RESNET
Presenter:
David Goldstein, Natural Resources Defense Council
Hidalgo Ball Rooms B & C

Despite broad bi-partisan support, residential energy efficiency tax credits did not pass this Congress. This session will explore what happened, what is expected to take place in the new Congress, and discuss what role the rating industry should play in molding this issue.

Missed Opportunities for Comfort and Efficiency: Understanding Thermal & Pressure Boundaries (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
David Keefe, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation
Cavalier Room

What does it mean to have a continuous air barrier? How can you make sure that a home isn't drawing its "fresh" air from the garage or attic? Learn what to look for to determine if insulation is effective. Get design details and installation tips on how to address boundary boondoggles.

"Making It Work In Texas" - San Antonio Energy Efficiency Mortgage Initiative
Moderator:
Mark Vanderlinden, Fannie Mae
Presenters:
Patricia Goolsby, Criterion Mortgage, Ltd
Chip Henderson, CONTECTS - Consultants & Architects
Daniel Lopez, Fannie Mae San Antonio Partnership Office
Conference Center Room D

As part of Fannie Mae's is participating in a $ 2 billion housing investment commitment to address the housing needs of the greater San Antonio area, this session will focus on the Energy Efficiency Initiative, which goals include producing 5,000 energy efficient homes over five years. Over $500 million has been budgeted for energy efficient mortgages by Fannie Mae for the San Antonio Energy Efficiency Initiative, which is a partnership with the Greater San Antonio Home Builders Association, the San Antonio Board of REALTORS, and Metropolitan Partnership for Energy. for the program. Successes of the Initiative include energy efficient homes being added as a feature of the Affordable Showcase of Homes, an annual partnership of the Greater San Antonio Home Builders Association and the City of San Antonio.

"Enhancing the Quality of Our Product" - RESNET's Enhanced Quality Assurance Procedures
Moderator:
Ben Adams, MaGrann Associates
Presenters:
Adam Gifford, Conservation Services Group
Lee O'Neal, NSpects
Daran Wastchak, D.R. Wastchak, LLC
Conference Center Room C

There is a growing emphasis on maintaining the quality of rating services as the market demand for ratings increases and new players are entering into the field. To ensure this quality and to enhance the credibility of the rating industry RESNET has improved the rating quality assurance procedures and more clearly defined the rating quality assurance responsibilities of rating providers. This session will explain these changes and discuss options for rating providers to cost-effectively implement these improved quality assurance procedures.

"An Affordable Investment in Peace of Mind" - New Affordable Rater Insurance Coverage
Moderator:
Mark Jansen, Energy Efficient Homes Midwest
Presenters:
Claudia Brovick, RESNET
James Parck, J.R. Parck
Conference Center Room B

RESNET has arranged for affordable general business and professional liability insurance coverage for the rating industry. This session will describe the features of this coverage and explore the risks that the rating industry is exposed to and why proper coverage is critical.

5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

RESNET Reception
The Gazebo

Tuesday, March 1, 2004

7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Registration & Continental Breakfast - Exhibits Open
Exhibit Area - Hidalgo Ballroom A

Break Out Session 3
8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

"What It All Means" - Quantifying the Changes to the Rating Score in 2006 and How They Will Affect ENERGY STAR Homes (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center
Presenters:
David Lee, Environmental Protection Agency
David Meisegeier, ICF Consulting
Dave Roberts, Architectural Energy Corporation
Hildago Ball Room B & C

The changes to the International Energy Conservation Code and the federal air conditioner manufacturing efficiency standards that will go into effect in 2006 will affect the rating scores in many regions of the nation. This session will quantify what effects the changes will in the rating score in regions across the nation. The session will conclude with a presentation by the Environmental Protection how the changes will affect ENERGY STAR Homes.

Home Performance Diagnostics: Better Solutions & Better Sales (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
Joe Kuonen, Comfort Diagnostics & Solutions, Inc.
Cavalier Room

Learn how home performance contractors use diagnostics to appeal to customers' hot buttons for comfortable, healthy homes, and thrifty utility costs. REAL customer service really sells solutions, and plenty of them!

"Rater Training Providers Workshop" - How to Effectively Work with New RESNET National Rater Core Test
Moderator:
Kathy Spigarelli, RESNET
Presenters:
Michael Andreyuk, Southface Energy Institute
Mark Jansen, Energy Efficient Homes Midwest
Douglas Walter, Kansas Building Science Institute
Conference Center Room D

In 2005 RESNET will begin administering the national rater core test through its internet server. This will create challenges to rater training providers in fitting the test into its class schedule. This interactive session will develop innovative solutions to meeting this challenge.

ACCA Manual J Load Calculation - An Overview for the Energy Rater
Moderator:
Kristin Shewfelt, E-Star Colorado
Presenters:
Dennis Storer, Calcs Plus
Ken Summers, The Comfort Institute
Conference Center Room C

A key element in a high performance home is the proper sizing of the HVAC system. The industry standard for HVAC load calculations is the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J. This session will provide an overview of this tool for raters and discuss the impacts that the tool can have ratings and the business opportunities it presents to raters.

"Completing the Circle" - The Builder - Rater - Utility Relationship and Energy Codes
Moderator
Thomas Hamilton, CHEERS
Presenters:
Cece Barros, Pacific Gas & Electric
David Blanke, Southern California Gas
Elisa Clifford, Southern California Edison
Conference Center Room B

Change in state energy codes have a significant impact on the rating industry as well as the building industry. It is important that raters be current on the code and the verification requirements that are necessary in order to function as an effective liaison to the builder. Utility residential energy efficiency programs support changes in the energy code but are most effective when they prepare and educate the builders and raters for these changes. Additionally the rater serves an important function as a link between the builder and the utility. This presentation will review the success of the California Energy Star New Homes Program and its effectiveness in preparing builders for code changes and the impact the program has had on the rating industry in California and the future outlook of the program in California.

Break Out Session 4
10:30`a.m. - Noon

"Zero Energy Homes Performance" - A Sacramento, California Case Study (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Charles Segerstrom, Pacific Gas & Electric
Presenter:
Michael Keesee, Sacramento Municipal Utility District
Hildago Ballroom B & C

The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) is involved in a 95 unit Zero Energy Home community. As part of the project SMUD is conducting an extensive monitoring project in which the Zero Energy Homes will be compared to a non-Zero Energy Home community of homes of comparable size and home buyers. The two communities that are being evaluated are literally across the street from each other. In this session SMUD's project manager will present the results of the performance evaluation and discuss the ramifications to the rating industry.

Preventing and Solving Moisture Problems (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
Doug Garrett, Building Performance and Comfort, Inc.
Cavalier Room

Learn to analyze moisture problems and generate solutions from a "whole house" perspective. Understand what conditions support mold growth and how to prevent its occurrence or re-occurrence. Gain a better appreciation for how well-intentioned efforts to solve problems can produce negative side-effects.

"Truly Going to a Systems Engineering Approach" - The Expansion of the Rating Method to Account for Lighting, Appliances, and On-Site Energy Production
Moderator:
Tei Simmerman, Florida Solar Energy Center
Presenters:
Richard Faesy, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation
Dave Roberts, Architectural Energy Corporation
Conference Center Room D

Currently only the energy used for heating, cooling, and providing hot water for a home is considered in the rating score. It is well established that these end uses represent only a part of a home's energy use. With the emergence of the Zero Energy Home there is a need to account for all of the factors that consume energy in a home. In its effort to bring the national home energy rating standards into the 21st Century RESNET has adopted a change to the national technical standards that will allow raters to take these features into account. This session will discuss these improvements and explore their implications to the rating industry.

"Keeping Everything on the Level" - RESNET's New Rater Codes of Ethics, Standards of Practice and Financial Interest Disclosure
Moderator:
Bill Lilly, California Living and Energy
Presenters:
Ben Adams, MaGrann Associates
Steve Baden, RESNET
Conference Center Room C

Maintaining the consumer's trust in the rating service is a key factor in maintaining the health and growth of the rating industry. In order to maintain this credibility RESNET has adopted a Rating Codes of Ethics and a standard Rating Financial Interest Disclosure Form. In addition by the time of the conference RESNET will have adopted a Rating Standards of Practice that all raters and rating providers will be required to subscribe to. This session will explain these new elements and what they will require the rater to do. It will also explore how raters can use these new tools to market their services.

"Taking Care of Business" - Best Practices for Running and Growing a Rating Service Company
Moderator
Douglas Walter, Kansas Building Science Institute
Presenters
Steve Byers, BuiltWright
Kathy Howard, Energy Sense
Isaac Savage, Home Energy Partners
Conference Center Room B

This session will provide a "real world" example of the secrets of the trade of running and growing a successful, profitable rating business. The session will address such issues as hiring, training and retaining quality rating staff, record keeping, pricing, managing growth, staff responsibilities, etc.

Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Lunch
Conference Center Courtyard

RESNET Quality Assurance Committee Meeting
Conference Center Room B

RESNET Membership Services Meeting
Conference Center Room C

Special Lunch Sessions

"Learn About Enhancements to TREAT"
Presenter:
Greg Thomas, Performance Systems Development, Inc.
Conference Center Room D
Lots of new enhancements to the TREAT energy rating and home performance contracting software tool are in the works, including rapid building prototyping. Also learn about some of the advanced features available in TREAT like matching your model to partial year energy bills, predicting energy use month-by-month post construction or post retrofit, and how to track the rating, savings and usage prediction information for large numbers of buildings using online databases that link to TREAT.

Special Affordable Comfort Session
Crawl Spaces: Challenges & Solutions
Presenter:
Joe Kuonen, Comfort Diagnostics & Solutions, Inc.
Cavalier Room

Recent research and practical applications in the field are diametrically opposed to conventional crawlspace "wisdom." See how ventilation causes uncontrolled humidity, wood moisture, and encourages mold growth and termite activity. Find out why and how progressive contractors and building scientists are installing 100% vapor barriers, sealing off vents, and moving the thermal barrier location. Learn how to create dry, durable, "healthy" crawlspaces while generating over 15% energy savings.

Break Out Session 5
1:30 - 3:00 p.m.

"Giving Credit to Quality Installation" - New Insulation Inspection Procedures (Builders Track)
Moderator:
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center
Presenters:
Mark Jansen, Energy Efficient Homes Midwest
Kelly Parker, Guaranteed Watt Saver Systems
Hildago Ballroom B & C

Everyone knows that the energy performance of a home's insulation is effected by the quality of the installation of the insulation. To improve the way that the rating industry accounts for the quality of the insulation installation, RESNET has adopted clearer insulation inspection procedures. This session will provide the details of the new procedures and discuss the effects it will have on the rating process.

Do No Harm: Combustion Safety (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
Rich Moore, Invisible Energy
Cavalier Room

Effective insulation and air sealing treatments can make a huge difference in the tightness of a home. In some cases, well-intentioned work can cause undesirable and dangerous consequences. Understand the conditions that contribute to back drafting, spillage, or carbon monoxide production. Be better able to recognize visual indicators of combustion problems. Learn how integrating combustion safety testing can lower your liability and increase your profit.

"Taking It to the Streets" - Principles Needed to be Considered in Developing a Successful Rating Business
Moderator:
Carrie Ann Wall, Metro Code Analysis
Presenters:
Steve Baden, RESNET
Claudia Brovick, RESNET
Conference Center Room D

Will present the key elements that successful rating businesses have employed in making their services profitable. This session will address such strategic considerations as defining your services, customers, marketing strategies and developing strategic partners.

"Setting the Standard for Sampling" - The Path of Developing an Industry Sampling Standard
Moderator:
Daran Wastchak, D.R. Wastchak, LLC
Presenters:
Steve Gleaves, HomeEnergy Fix
Lee O'Neal, Nspects
David Wilson, Energy Rated Homes of Utah
Conference Center Room C

RESNET has formed a Rating Sampling Standard Task force. The purpose of the task force is to develop an industry standard for sampling and create an accreditation process for sampling providers. The RESNET effort is built upon the new EPA sampling protocol developed by EPA.

Designing Effective Rating Quality Control Programs to Influence Positive Changes in the Rating Industry: Colorado, Texas and Louisiana Case Studies
Moderator:
Jonathan Passe, Environmental Protection Agency
Presenters:
Megan Edmunds, E-Star Colorado
Buddy Justice, Louisiana Department of Natural Resources
Brian Smith, ICF Consulting
Mike Stockard, TXU Electric Delivery
Conference Center Room B

The Dallas utility, TXU Electric Delivery's ENERGY STAR Homes Program has undertaken a comprehensive rating quality control and assurance program. This program has influenced the substantial growth of the rating industry in north central Texas where over 39,000 ENERGY STAR Homes have been labeled in 3 years. ICF Consulting, on behalf of TXU established a unique QC/QA program that identifies discrepancies in home analysis and inspection and testing procedures among the certified raters and rating providers. The findings then are used to stimulate continuous improvements in the rater training and home verification process while encouraging the implementation of industry standards and adoption of best practices through the Texas Home Energy Rating Organization, an organization of the accredited rating providers in the state. The presenters of the session would be representatives of TXU and ICF Consulting. E-Star Colorado has developed an innovative and comprehensive rating quality assurance program. The Louisiana state energy office has also launched an aggressive rater quality assurance program. A representative of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources will present their state's effort.

Break Out Session 6
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.

"A New Environment for Builders Raters" - Changes to the International Energy Conservation Code and Minimum Air Conditioner Manufacturing Efficiency Standards (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Dave Roberts, Architectural Energy Corporation
Presenters:
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center
Michael Holtz, Architectural Energy Corporation
Hildago Ballroom B & C

2006 will see a number of improvements for defining energy efficiency that will a dramatic impact on builders. The 2006 version of the IECC will incorporate the most robust performance path for the IECC. In addition the new minimum efficiency manufacturing for air conditioners will move from 10 to 13 SEER. The 2006 version of the IECC will require the base efficiency of air conditioners to be 13 SEER. This session will quantify the effects of these changes and discuss the effects this will have to the ENERGY STAR Homes Program.

Central Air Conditioning System RX (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
Doug Garrett, Building Performance and Comfort, Inc.
Cavalier Room

In recent field research, sixty percent of residential air conditioning units had either the incorrect charge or incorrect airflow. Find out how system design, sizing, air balancing, duct location, and duct system tightness can impact comfort, equipment life, system efficiency, and surprisingly, building durability and safety.

"Keeping Things Tight" - The Latest in Blower Door and Duct Testing Technology
Moderator:
Steve Byers, EnergySmiths, Inc.
Presenter:
Gary Nelson, Energy Conservatory
Conference Center Room D

This session would feature Gary Nelson of the Energy Conservatory and feature the latest advancements in blower door and duct testing equipment.

Building America Implications For the Rater
Moderator:
George James, U.S. Department of Energy Building America Team
Panelists:
Tracy Fogelsong, EnerCalc Nevada
Ken Fonorow, Florida H.E.R.O.
Lee O'Neal, NSpects
Conference Center Room C

The U.S. Department of Energy's Building America Program is the leading force for the engineered systems approach to building. The program has made major made major technical advancements in building performance. This session will focus on how the program has worked with certified raters and what role a home energy rater can play in deploying the technologies and building practices pioneered through the program.

"Keeping Things Above Board" - New EPA and RESNET Consumer Complaint Protocols
Moderator:
Mike Baker, TXU Electric Delivery
Presenters:
Steve Baden, RESNET
Sam Rashkin, Environmental Protection Agency
Conference Center B

A key element of providing quality assurance is the way that consumer complaints are addressed. The process must be transparent, accessible, fair and deliberative. RESNET and EPA have adopted protocols for addressing consumer complaints. This session will review these protocols, explore how they will be aligned and explain how impact raters and builders.

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

RESNET's Beer and Margarita Fiesta
Exhibit Area

Wednesday, March 2, 2004

7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Registration & Continental Breakfast - Exhibits Open
Exhibit Area - Hidalgo Ballroom A

Break Out Session 7
8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

"Home Energy Ratings and Green Buildings" - U.S. Green Building Council's Residential LEED Program (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Richard Faesy, Vermont Energy Investment Corporation
Presenters:
Anne Edminster, Design AVEnues
Jay Hall, U.S. Green Building Council
Kristin Shewfelt, E-Star Colorado
Hildago Ballroom B & C

The U.S. Green Building Council is in the process of developing a residential green building rating program. As part of this effort the organization is conducting a program to pilot the effort in targeted housing markets. This session would focus on its ramifications for the home energy rating industry and what relationship should RESNET have with the LEED residential program. It will also provide an update of the pilot program and explain how raters can become involved in the effort.

Establishing a Home Performance Contracting Business (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenter:
Mike Woodson, Practically Free Energy
Cavalier Room

Learn how two entrepreneurs were able to start up a home performance business which broke even on their initial investment within three months, and generates an 80+% profit margin. This session is for those interested in starting their own home performance business, or improving their existing business revenues through "value-added" services and products.

"Putting the Internet to Work for You" - Using a Web Site to Market Your Rating Business
Moderator:
Chris Maher, Thermo-Scan Inspections
Presenter:
Randy Martin, R. L. Martin Associates
Conference Center Room D

The Internet presents a powerful tool for a rating service company to project its image and services to the market place. This session would feature RESNET's web master Randy Martin who will describes the benefits of a web site, how to build the site into a rater's business and marketing plan and how to start your own web site.

"Taking A New Way Look at Duct Leakage" - Issues Related to Delta Q and Other Duct Tightness Tests
Moderator:
Steve Saunders, TexEnergy Solutions
Presenter:
Ian Walker, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory
Conference Center Room C

Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory (LBL) has developed a Delta Q protocol for measuring duct tightness. Many members of the rating industry are not aware of this method for protocol. This session would present a forum on this new method. It would be started with an explanation of what Delta Q is, what the benefits are, what the LBL research has found, and where is the protocol in terms of commercial product availability. The session then would involve an open forum in which the merits can be discussed and questions answered.

Rating Business Model: Serving the Production Builder Needs
Moderator:
John "Chip" Henderson, CONTECTS - Consultants & Architects
Presenters:
Kelly Parker, Guaranteed Watt Saver Systems
Daran Wastchak, D.R. Wastchak LLC
Conference Center Room B

The ENERGY STAR Homes Program is attracting more and more production builders. From Arizona to Texas ENERGY STAR Homes has become mainstream in many housing markets. This session will focus on how successful rating firms have captured this dynamic market by adding builder training into their rating services. This session would be a follow-up to the popular session by Kelly Parker and Daran Wastchak.

Break Out Session 8

10:30 a.m. - Noon

"Let the Word Go Forth" - ENERGY STAR Homes New Marketing Tools (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Steve Gleaves, HomeEnergy Fix
Presenter:
Sam Rashkin, Environmental Protection Agency
Hildago Ballroom B & C

EPA has developed a series of new marketing tools to promote ENERGY STAR Homes. In this session Sam Rashkin of EPA will introduce new tools such as the "Sales Tool Kit" and "Home Calc, explain how the work, why raters and their builder partners should use them, and their potential benefits as tools for growing their rating business.

Introduction to Home Performance with ENERGY STAR ® (Affordable Comfort Track)
Presenters:
Megan Edmunds, E-Star Colorado
Andrew Fisk, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
Mike Rogers, Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
Cavalier Room

Explore results and lessons learned over the last four years, and new directions planned for the coming year with Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®® program implementers. The session will be of primary interest to states, utilities, and other program implementers interested in pursuing a comprehensive approach to improving the efficiency of existing homes. It will be most useful for those seeking an introduction to, or quick update on, Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®.

"It Can be Done" - Quality Assurance and the Small Rating Provider
Moderator:
Robby Schwarz, BuiltWright
Presenters
Chip Henderson, CONTECTS - Consultants & Architects
Chris Johnson, New Hampshire Electric Cooperative
Ryan Oldfied, Appreciated Energy
Conference Center Room D

The new RESNET rating quality assurance procedures can prove to be a challenge to the rating provider that only has one or two raters. This session will present a case study of a Colorado rating provider's quality assurance provisions and feature a discussion of how rating providers with this business model can cost-effectively comply with the new RESNET procedures.

"Ensuring National Consistency" - Verification Protocols for Rating Software Programs, Tax Credits and Energy Code Compliance
Moderator:
Michael Holtz, Architectural Energy Corporation
Presenters:
Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center
Dave Roberts, Architectural Energy Corporation
Conference Center Room B

Working in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy, the Renewable Energy Laboratory, and Pacific Northwest Laboratory, RESNET has developed a software testing and verification standard to ensure national consistency in the way software programs calculate energy savings for home energy ratings, tax credits, and the International Energy Conservation Code. This session would discuss the proposed standard, the technical issues involved, and the implications to the rating industry.

"Career Path for Raters" - Developing New Definitions for Rater Certification
Moderator:
Steve Baden, RESNET
Presenters:
Ken Fonorow, Florida H.E.R.O.
Kristin Shewfelt, E- Star Colorado
Gayle Sampson, Mid-West Building Diagnostics
Conference Center Room C

RESNET has formed a Definitions of Rater Certification Task Force. The task force is exploring establishing categories of certification of raters above the basic rater certification. The goal is to provide raters a career path and for recognizing of knowledge, skills, and experience above and beyond the basic rater certification. This session will provide an update on the task force's deliberations and will be interactive to attendees on the issue.

Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Lunch
Conference Center Courtyard

RESNET Technical Committee Meeting
Conference Center Room B

RESNET Training and Education Committee Meeting
Conference Center Room C

Break Out Session 9
1:30 - 3:00 p.m.

New Business Opportunities with ENERGY STAR (Builder Track)
Moderator:
Ed Carr, Comfort Home Corporation
Presenter:
Sam Rashkin, Environmental Protection Agency
Hidalgo Ball Room B & C

EPA has introduced two new components of its suite for ENERGY STAR Homes, the "ENERGY STAR Advanced Lighting Package" and the "ENERGY STAR for Homes Indoor Air Quality Label". In this session EPA will explain these two new components by explaining what they are and explore how they can add value to a rater's services.

"Creating a Level Planning Field" - Making Blower Door Duct Leakage Testing Consistent Among Raters
Moderator:
David Meisegeier, ICF Consulting
Presenter:
Kelly Parker, Guaranteed Watt Saver Systems
Cavalier Room

In 2006 the national home energy rating standards will require that raters must use the protocol contained in ASHRAE Standard 119 Section 5.1 for blower testing and ASHRAE Standard 152 Annex D for duct tightness testing. This session will provide a overview of the new requirement and explain what it will mean in terms of consistency of the results of the diagnostic testing.

Case Studies of Rating Business Model of Rating Services With Applied Building Science Consulting
Moderator:
Gayle Sampson, Mid-West Building Diagnostics
Presenters:
Tracy Fogelsong, EnerCalc Nevada
Ken Fonorow, Florida H.E.R.O.
Lee O'Neal, Nspects
Conference Center Room D

A successful rating business strategy is to combine building science consulting with rating services. This session would focus on how successful rating companies have added building science consulting as a profitable added value service.

"And Now for Something Completely Different" - The Power of the Internet Blog and Introduction to RESNET's Blog
Moderator:
Randy Martin, R.L. Martin Associates
Presenter
Claudia Brovick, RESNET
Conference Center Room C

The Internet's blog is increasingly being relied upon for the latest information in an interactive format that is not filtered by news editors and agendas. The 2004 presidential campaign has shown the power of the blog to energize people and draw like-minded people into a "virtual community" not confined by geography. RESNET has recently launched "RESBlog" that posts the latest developments in the rating industry and facilitates an on-line dialog on issues featured. This session will introduce the emerging information power of the blog, how to tap into RESBlog and how you can create your own rating blog.

Training and Certification of Rating Data Collectors: A Texas Model
Moderator:
Mark Curry, Energy Sense
Presenters:
Michael Andreyuk, Southface Energy Institute
John Ashe, ICF Consulting
Conference Center Room B

Many rating business models use data collectors to inspect the home and provide the certified rater the data collected to produce the rating. There are currently no training or experience or training requirements for these data collectors. RESNET is considering adding a category of certified data collector to the rater certifications. In Texas ICF Consulting and Southface Energy Institute conducted a special data collector training and testing course targeting these data collector needs. This session will explore the results of this pilot effort and discuss the national implications of certifying rating data collectors.

Break Out Session 10
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.

Rater Trainer and Rating Provider Quality Assurance Designee National Test
Hidalgo Ball Room B & C

Beginning on April 1, 2005, the RESNET national home energy rating standards require that rater trainers and rating provider quality assurance designee must pass a RESNET administered test. RESNET will be conducting the test at this time on-line. Those interested in taking the test must register prior to the test. To register for the test and for more information contact Claudia Brovick at 651-398-7929 or e-mail cbrovick@natresnet.org

"Towards Tomorrow" - Development of a Rating Path to Energy Codes
Moderator:
Tom Fitzpatrick, Energy Systems Laboratory
Presenter:
David Wilson, Energy Rated Homes of Utah
Cavalier Room

Home energy ratings provide an outstanding opportunity to increase the performance of energy codes. Already 11 states have recognized this and have incorporated ratings as a compliance option in their energy codes. Home energy ratings will become even more viable as the 2006 version of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) becomes adopted. Bill Prindle of the American Council of an Energy Efficient Economy has proposed an amendment to the IECC that explicitly recognizes ratings as a compliance tool. This session will explore the opportunity of a home energy rating path to energy codes and what would be involved in a rating mapping analysis.

"Multifamily ENERGY STAR" - A Facilitated Discussion
Moderator:
C.T. Loyd, The Nelrod Company
Presenters:
John Jennings, Conservation Services Group
Andrew Padian, Steven Winter Associates
Conference Center Room D

This would present a facilitated session that will put together the most important parts of testing for multifamily buildings to meet ENERGY STAR standards. Subjects would include: air tightness testing protocols that are cost effective and work; dealing with large central heating, DHW, and cooling equipment; learning how to test during construction; getting a multi-family developer on board; and what items are integral to multifamily ENERGY STAR that needs to be addressed in addition to those items in single family ENERGY STAR. Suggested presenters include John Tooley (Advanced Energy), John Jennings (CSG) & Andrew Padian (Steven Winter Associates).

"Moving ENERGY STAR to the Great White North" - Canada and ENERGY STAR
Moderator:
Sam Rashkin, Environmental Protection Agency
Presenter:
Bruce Gough, Energy Building Group
Conference Center Room C

Following the 2004 RESNET Conference a group of interested parties began working with existing government agencies in Canada to develop an Energy Star for Homes program for the Province of Ontario (40-45% of all housing starts in Canada). The development work has been undertaken by Bruce Gough of Energy Building Group and by Tim Mayo - a former manager of the R2000 Program in Canada, and was supported by the EnerQuality Corporation, an efficiency delivery agency of housing programs in Ontario, with backing from our major gas utilities and the provincial government. The project is also supported by Natural Resources Canada, a department of the Government of Canada which provides various efficiency programs in Canada including R2000, EnerGuide (for appliances and homes) and Energy Star for appliances and windows. Natural Resources Canada has negotiated the license agreement for the use of Energy Star for Homes in Canada with the US EPA. The official announcement of a two year pilot is scheduled for 12th January, 2005 at the Ontario Builder Forum in Toronto. Completions of the first Energy Star Ontario homes should occur in early summer, 2005.