Zero Energy Ready Home Program
Aspects of the Zero Energy Home System:
The DOE Zero Energy Ready Homes (ZERH) program is an established certification program that sets a bar above Stretch Code and Energy Star, but below Passive House.
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) makes tax payers eligible for a $5,000 Tax Credit for ZERH Certified homes- this is available for the owner of the property upon project completion. Multi-family project tax credits are also available, $1000 > $5000 per unit.
Summary of Program Requirements
The ZERH program REQUIRES Energy Star (V3.2) Certification. It is important to note that the fairly simple checklists and requirements are in addition to successful Energy Star Certification, which you can read about on this page.
It also requires successful EPA Indoor airPLUS certification, V1 for projects permitted before 1/2025 . Indoor airPLLUS certification results in a healthy home by requiring construction practices and products to minimize occupant exposure to airborne pollutants and contaminants.
We believe all requirements of the ZERH program are practical. Much like the Energy Star program, for many houses in Massachusetts the lift will be administrative in nature along with ensuring the entire build team is aware of the program requirements as it relates to their scope. The process starts in design for successful certification.
As your HERS Rater, we can provide guidance to the build and design teams to support succesful ZERH Certification. With generous Federal tax credits, and robust yet practical program standards, this is a great path for high performance new homes or multi family projects.
Zero Energy Ready Home requirements compared to other certification programs.