What is the threshold HERS Index score for a home to be considered energy efficient?

The HERS Index is a scoring system used to measure a home's energy efficiency. A score of 100 represents the energy efficiency of a standard new home built to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) in 2006. This standard serves as a baseline for evaluating other homes. Therefore, a home with a HERS Index score lower than 100 is considered more energy efficient than the reference home, while a score above 100 indicates less efficiency.

A score of 100 aligns with the definition of energy-efficient homes within this context, as it establishes the baseline for comparison. Homes scoring below this threshold demonstrate better performance in terms of energy conservation and efficiency measures, making them desirable for energy-conscious consumers.

Understanding the HERS Index allows homeowners and builders to assess improvements in energy efficiency, which can have financial benefits over the life of the home through lower energy bills and a smaller environmental footprint.