The capabilities and culpabilities of rating systems can be difficult to determine for architects and builders alike. However, with the quantity of new homes projected by planners to be built in the next 50 years, more must be demanded of these rating systems to achieve net zero energy performance goals. The return on investment (ROI) of high performance, sustainable housing is also difficult to determine. This study evaluated the following benchmark rating systems for their capacity to achieve net zero energy housing and the associated cost of such:

1. •EPA Energy Star Qualified Homes
   

2. •USGBC LEED for Homes 2008
   

3. •ICC 700-2008 NGBS
   

4. •PHPP 2007-2010
   

The research makes clear that although all rating systems that were analyzed consider energy efficiency and building performance in varying degrees; only PHPP helps to bring the goals of net zero energy performance housing within reach, demanding an energy efficiency based performance of 90% efficiency over the benchmark building.

AIA Upjohn Full Report HERE

Sponsors:

Department of Energy BA

Upjohn Research Award

Links to related studies:

Snow Creek Energy Monitoring

Energy Modeling Comparisons