How is the MA stretch code different from the existing Energy Star for Homes program?
The Energy Star for Homes program is a voluntary program for home builders. In Massachusetts this program is currently administered by ICF International on behalf of the major energy utilities in the state, and has several hundred builders enrolled. This program accounted for 15% of all new homes in Massachusetts in 2008. There are 2 or 3 tiers to the Energy Star program. The stretch code essentially makes the current Energy Star program requirements mandatory in any adopting municipality, and sets a specific minimum HERS index rating of 65 or 70 based on size for new homes, and less strict requirements for renovations. This standard for new construction is more stringent that the base Energy Star for Homes requirement currently set at 85, but for large homes it is the same as the current Energy Star tier 2 set at a HERS index score of 65.
