Lexington homebuilders association first in U.S. to support energy rating index

The Home Builders Association of Lexington, KY., is the first U.S. builders association to support the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) index.

HERS was developed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), a trade organization that promotes healthy energy consumption.

The HERS index is clearly depicted using a thermometer-like scale with orange at the top, gradually shifting to yellow and then to green at the bottom.

Green, which is essentially the universal color symbolizing something is environmentally friendly, appropriately stands for homes using the least energy.

Homes on the index are given a score based on its energy performance. The lower the score is, the more energy efficient the home is.

Numbers high on the scale at orange are given a rating of 150. The standard number for a new home falls in the yellow color range, with a rating of 100.

HBAL members who are already certified as RESNET Energy Smart Builders include Jimmy Nash Homes, Mike Kerwin Homes, HM Homes, Captiva Luxury Homes, James Monroe Homes, Kelley & Beasley/K & B Homes, Hodges and Heathman, Gale-Davis Properties, and Ball Homes.

More information on the HERS index can be found here.