About the DOE CHALLENGE HOME
Since 2008, the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Builders Challenge program has recognized hundreds of leading builders for their achievements in energy efficiency – resulting in over 12,000 energy efficient homes and millions of dollars in energy savings. Use of the EnergySmart Home Scale (E-Scale) led to wide adoption of the HERS Index by builders across the nation as an easy way to help their buyers understand the comparative energy efficiency of their homes. The DOE CHALLENGE HOME represents a whole new level of home performance with rigorous requirements that ensure the highest levels of energy savings, comfort, health and durability.
A Symbol of Excellence
The DOE CHALLENGE HOME label is the symbol of excellence for new homes.
A Strong Heritage. All DOE CHALLENGE HOMES begin with ENERGY STAR for Homes comprehensive building science requirements.
Link to Proven Science. All DOE CHALLENGE HOMES incorporate proven technologies and best practices developed under Building America's world-class research program. Each DOE CHALLENGE HOME is constructed to meet future codes – keeping these homes from quickly becoming obsolete.
Better Air Quality. All DOE CHALLENGE HOMES incorporate EPA's Indoor airPlus program to deliver a healthy indoor environment that minimizes dangerous chemicals, provides continuous fresh air, and effectively filters out particles associated with respiratory problems.
Luxurious Comfort. With engineered systems and ENERGY STAR® qualified products, all DOE CHALLENGE HOMES are comfortable and quiet with balanced temperatures in every room and immediate hot water at every faucet.
Low or No Utility Bills. With unparalleled levels of energy efficiency, expect low or no utility bills on all DOE CHALLENGE HOMES. A small solar power system can often offset most or all of the homeowner's utility bills. Being net zero energy ready, homeowner can easily install solar power systems in the future.
Better Protection. A home built to DOE CHALLENGE HOME standards is designed to last hundreds of years. To ensure maximum durability, the home is equipped with comprehensive water protection to minimize problems related to moisture. Additionally, builders are encouraged to include disaster-resistant construction practices that address critical risks that homeowners may face in their specific location.
Water Efficiency. Every DOE CHALLENGE HOME provides efficient hot water distribution systems, while asking partners to embrace comprehensive water efficiency through participation in EPA Water Sense for New Homes.
Right the First Time. Fixing building mistakes is often significantly more expensive than the time required getting it right the first time. DOE CHALLENGE HOME builders, already held to a higher standard, are also encouraged to undertake comprehensive Quality Assurance/Quality Management processes.