Implementing Home Energy Rating Systems

Implementation of solar-reflective surfaces: Materials and utility programs

“…Audiences include consumers, roofing and building contractors, manufacturers of roofing products, paving contractors and public works departments, and energy service companies. Much of the information that follows is based on a study conducted by researchers at LBL on the promotion of Home Energy Rating Systems (HERS) throughout the U.S. A HERS is the rating and labeling of new and existing energy-efficient homes by local, state and federal government agencies, utility companies and other organizations (Vine et al, 1987). Since HERS and a high-albedo surfaces program involve similar audiences and implementing agencies, we are hopeful that a review of the successful aspects of various HERS promotion programs may improve the promotion efforts of an albedo program.…”

“…Homeowners, landlords and building managers are the consumers for an effort to increase the albedo of buildings. Some building managers and landlords may be most concerned with costs and savings, comfort, and trustworthiness of the implementing group (Vine et al, 1987). In addition, interest in energy efficiency or concern for the environment may be a factor in forming the opinions of some individuals.…”

“…Thermal comfort will instead be a major factor in choosing a roof that will satisfy them for 20 or 30 years. Some consumers, especially low-income homeowners, may be concerned that energy efficiency and cost savings can only be achieved with reduced thermal comfort (Vine et al, 1987). Educational programs should stress that energy savings from high-albedo surfaces do not imply a loss of thermal comfort.…”

“…Instead, efforts should be made to insure builders' cooperation in the program. Second, builders are concerned with the return on their investments, and therefore the effect of high-albedo surfaces on the marketability of the building or the workmanship (Vine et al, 1987). In most cases, high-albedo modifications will not require additional investment by a builder, but the consumer demand for the high-albedo home may be affected.…”

Electricity end-use efficiency: Experience with technologies, markets, and policies throughout the world

“…The experience with implementing HERS is extensive and well-documented (Hendrickson 1988, Vine et al 1987a, Vine et al 1987b). In the U.S., organizations now using HERS include regional governments (e.g., Tennessee Valley Authority (TV A) and Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), national industry organizations, state and local government agencies, and utility companies.…”