What is a common benchmark for identifying an energy-efficient home?

The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score is a widely recognized benchmark for assessing the energy efficiency of homes. The HERS Index quantifies a home's energy performance on a scale, allowing for comparisons against other homes. A lower HERS score indicates a more energy-efficient home, with the score of a standard new home being 100. This system helps homeowners and builders identify areas for improvement, determine potential energy savings, and make informed decisions about energy use.

While LEED certification, Energy Star certification, and the Passivhaus standard are also important measures of energy efficiency in buildings, the HERS score provides a clear numerical scale that can be easily understood and applied across different homes, making it a commonly accepted benchmark in the industry.