What is an Energy Star home?
A Home Energy Rating indicates the energy efficiency of a new or existing house. A computer software program is used to model a home's energy usage and compare the home's energy performance against the best performance possible for that structure. The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index determines the Energy Star rating. A Five Star rating qualifies a house for the Energy Star designation.   The minimal qualifying score for a home built in Michigan's southern lower peninsula is 85, and 80 in the northern lower peninsula and upper peninsula.  [view the map of climate zones].

What incentives are available?
Incentives are available for five new houses that achieve an Energy Star rating. The selected home builders would be eligible for up to $5,000 based on the marketing plan and innovative energy efficiency features of the home.

Which houses are eligible & how will the houses be selected?
Only licensed builders are eligible and builders can only submit one application. Previous Energy Star Home grant winners are not eligible. The date of the application must precede the date of the building permit. House construction should be completed by August 30, 2009. The Five Star Energy Star rating will be the minimum criterion. Selection will be based on marketing plans for the Energy Star homes. In an effort to feature Energy Star houses throughout the State, geographic location will be considered when reviewing the grant applications.   Bonus points will be given to houses that have less than 2,000 square feet of livable space.   Houses that feature less than 1,500 square feet of livable space will receive additional bonus points. The five homebuilders who are selected will be required to verify the home's Energy Star status by utilizing  a Home Energy Rating and providing an Energy Star Certificate upon the completion of construction.

How do I apply?
An application  will consist of two parts: 1) cover sheet, and 2) description of innovations and marketing plans. Application forms have to be submitted to the Energy Office, P.O. Box 30221, Lansing, MI 48909 by: December 15, 2008.