Energy Code Compliance

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HERS (Home Energy Rating System) Index and ERI (Energy Rating Index) are compliance pathways for new construction energy code. HERS and ERI Index are similar in nature with the terms often used interchangeably, however they have slightly different standards.  

Using a software program such as Ekotrope, an energy model is created using specific details including building assemblies, mechanical systems, and lighting/appliances.  The resulting model's score is calculated as a number on the Index scale, with 0 (or lower) meaning the house generates all of its estimated annual energy usage onsite, through renewable energy systems such as solar electric and geo thermal.  A score of 100, is equivalent to a code built home using 2006 energy code reference standards.  

Inspections and testing are required components of an Energy Rating, ensuring quality is met and construction shortcuts are avoided.  Insulation inspections, forced air duct distribution leakage testing, building envelope tightness blower door testing, and ventilation flow rate testing are all required components of Energy Ratings.

Most local building departments in the Roaring Form Valley, including City of Aspen, Pitkin County, Town of Basalt, Town of Carbondale, and Town of Snowmass Village either require or have an Index compliance pathway.  Index score requirements vary from department to department, and change from time to time, generally in the direction of more stringent requirements.

Some building departments have other pathways such as using RES Check, a less detailed and more lenient compliance pathway that won't carry the same Quality Assurance as the Index pathway.  Let us know if you have questions about energy code compliance options your project will require.