New York ENERGY STAR^® Homes Frequently Asked Questions

What is a New York ENERGY STAR Home?

New York ENERGY STAR Homes (NYESH) are new homes or apartments built to a standard higher than the New York State Energy Conservation Construction Code requires. They are designed to use less energy than traditional homes or apartments while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures.

What makes a New York ENERGY STAR Home different from a traditional home?

Four key components characterize a New York ENERGY STAR Home:

• Less Energy: New York ENERGY STAR Homes use significantly less energy than conventionally-built homes because of energy-saving features, including high-quality insulation, high-performance windows and doors, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and energy-saving appliances and lighting.
• Performance Tested: Each home passes a stringent evaluation, including home inspections which incorporate diagnostic performance testing, supported by computer-based analysis of energy use. Only homes meeting high-efficiency guidelines are designated as New York ENERGY STAR Homes.
• Safety, Health and Comfort: At the core of every New York ENERGY STAR Home is a tightly-built structure and sealed ventilation system that improves air quality and keeps the home warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and free from uncomfortable drafts.
• Real Savings: New York ENERGY STAR Homes provide homeowners with recurring savings on energy costs, which helps lower overall home operating expenses.

Why is a New York ENERGY STAR Home important to me?

New York ENERGY STAR Homes provide superior comfort and safety and deliver operational savings year after year.

In addition, New York ENERGY STAR Homes can be built to any size, style, or budget, which puts the opportunity to enjoy these benefits within reach.

Will a New York ENERGY STAR Home cost more than a conventional home?

New York ENERGY STAR Homes can be built to meet any size, style, or budget. They generally cost 1 to 3 percent more than a standard home, but are more energy-efficient, so homeowners save on energy costs each year.

Who is eligible to build a New York ENERGY STAR Home?

Eligibility for the program depends on New York State homeowners receiving their electricity or gas utility delivered by one or more of the following companies:

• Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation
• Consolidated Edison Company of New York Inc.
• New York State Electric and Gas Corporation
• National Fuel
• National Grid
• Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation
• Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc.

For information regarding services in the Long Island Power Authority territory, Nassau and Suffolk counties, please call 800-692-2626.

How can I find a New York ENERGY STAR Home builder?

NYSERDA provides a list of participating builders, click here to locate a builder near you.