This 5 minute video from the USGBC provides a concise look at the LEED for homes process. For a more in-depth look at the LEED for homes program you can view a longer video by clicking here.
This article is meant to give some insight into the HERS Rating business in California. Readers are encouraged to do more research to dig deeper into the topic and much of what follows is opinion based on one who has been in and around the HERS world in California since 2008.
General Overview of the California HERS Occupation
Those thinking of entering the HERS business really don’t have many resources available. There are no manuals about how to go about starting a California HERS business, no sample language for contracts, and no resources available to help streamline the HERS process. Established HERS raters are in business to make money and sharing their “secrets” is not a good business move. One HERS Rater said me that he felt like a magician and wasn’t going to give his secrets away. This is a dilemma for some since the HERS business is so specialized and technical, it can require considerable mentoring to avoid problems simply to apply things learned in a 3 or 5 day class.
Anyone who is thinking of getting into this worthwhile and interesting trade must understand that the HERS profession is not something you learn 3 days or a week. The costs involved, the employment opportunities, and the time requirements deserve careful consideration. California HERS Rater designations are an evolving process and this is all being played out in unchartered waters. The spectrum of HERS specialization is very wide and the learning curve can be steep for some. But like anything, the longer one stays in it, the easier it all becomes.
AB 758 would require the California Energy Commission to develop and implement a comprehensive program to achieve greater energy savings in existing residential and commercial buildings. The program may include energy audits, energy efficiency improvements, financing options, and green workforce training. It also requires the California Public Utilities Commission and publicly-owned utilities to implement energy efficiency programs consistent with the Legislature’s intent to encourage energy savings and greenhouse gas reductions
California has long been a leader in energy efficiency, but to meet our future goals for affordable, clean and reliable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we need AB 758 to ensure our aging residential and commercial building stock is as efficient as our new construction
On February 23 2010 a group of about 60 Real Estate appraisers gathered at Fort Washington Country Club to hear about residential energy efficiency and efficiency program developments in the Fresno area. Organized by Kelly Stevens, the engaging group heard about the City of Fresno’s Sustainable Fresno program from Bruce Barnes, outreach coordinator at the City of Fresno. Dave Robinson, Principal at Green Earth Equities presented on “Energy Wise House Flipping” that demonstrated how to turn depressed homes and entire neighborhoods into a profitable venture resulting in a win-win for the community, investors, and creation of green jobs. John Richau, Director at the California Association of HERS Raters presented on utility rates, HERS Raters, Energy Efficient Mortgages and upcoming programs for financing energy efficiency measures in existing homes.
