Multifamily New Construction Certification Process
There are three paths to earning the ENERGY STAR for multifamily new construction projects. Builders/developers may choose:
- ERI Path: Use an approved rating tool software to determine unit-by-unit energy savings based on the ERI target (or savings above Title 24 in California) and follow a prescriptive package of energy efficient measures developed by EPA in common spaces; OR
- ASHRAE Path: Use an energy modeling software approved to determine energy cost savings of the building’s energy efficient design compared to ASHRAE (or Title 24 in California); OR
- Prescriptive Path: Use a prescriptive package of energy efficient measures developed by EPA. (Not available in California)
Regardless of which path is chosen, each building must meet certain minimum mandatory requirements, and these are verified in the field by an approved Rater.
The step-by-step graphic below illustrates the process that eligible multifamily buildings follow to earn the ENERGY STAR. Visit the ENERGY STAR Technical Bulletins page to learn more about each of these steps, including A Rater's Guide to the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction Program Paths (PDF, 234 KB).