The DOE Challenge Home sets a new high level of home performance, with rigorous requirements that ensure outstanding levels of energy savings, comfort, health, and durability. DOE Challenge Homes are verified by a qualified third-party and are at least 40%-50% more energy efficient than a typical new home. This generally corresponds to a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index Score in the low- to mid-50s, depending on the size of the home and region in which it is built.
The DOE Challenge Home is a way to recognize builders for their leadership in increasing energy efficiency, improving indoor air quality, and making homes zero net-energy ready.
The program builds upon the comprehensive building science requirements of ENERGY STAR® for Homes Version 3, along with proven Building America innovations and best practices. Other special attribute programs are incorporated to help builders reach unparalleled levels of performance with homes designed to last hundreds of years.
DOE Challenge Home Builders are encouraged to: