EPSTM is an energy performance score that measures and rates the net energy consumptions and carbon footprint of a newly constructed home. The lower the score, the better — a low EPS identifies a home as energy efficient with a smaller carbon footprint and lower energy costs.
The following data is a real EPS report from an actual Quail Homes property.
Estimated Monthly Energy Costs
$74*
Estimated average annual energy costs:
$894*
Estimated average energy cost per month: Electric $56, Natural Gas $18
Estimated Energy Cost calculated using $0.08 per kWh and $0.83 per therm
Location
GM1
Vancouver, WA 98662
YEAR BUILT: 2017
SQ. FOOTAGE: 2,367
EPS ISSUE DATE: None
RATED BY: Four Walls, Inc.
Utilities:
Gas: NW Natural Gas Electric: Clark PUD
Energy Score
56
Based on home energy use of natural gas, electricity, or energy generated from an installed renewable system.
Estimated total annual gross energy usage: Electric (kWh): 8,253, Natural Gas (therms): 265
Estimated average annual energy generation: No system
Estimated average net energy usage: Electric (kWh): 8,253*, Natural Gas (therms): 265
CARBON FOOTPRINT:
Measured in tons of carbon dioxide tons/yr per year (tons/yr). One ton ≈ 2,000 miles WORST driven by one car (typical 21 mpg car).
Estimated average carbon footprint: Electric (tons/yr): 0.5, Natural gas (tons/yr): 1.6
Insulated Ceiling: R-68
Insulated Walls: R-29
Insulated Floors: R-38
Efficient Windows: U-0.24
Space Heating: 95.0 %
AFUE Furnace Efficient Lighting: 100.0 %
Envelope Tightness: 3.0 ACH @ 50Pa
Water Heater: Heat Pump 3.2 EF
A home’s EPS is based on the energy-efficient features listed above as well as the home’s size and specific design. Improvements and updates made to the home after the issue date will impact its EPS. EPS does not factor in occupant behavior, and as a result, actual energy costs may vary.
R-Value: Rates the efficiency of insulation; a higher R-Value signals improved performance of floor, ceiling and wall insulation.
U-Value: Indicates the rate of heat loss in windows; a lower U-Value demonstrates the effectiveness of a window, resulting in a more comfortable home.
ACH @ 50Pa: Total air changes per hour at 50 pascals; a low number signifies a properly-sealed home with fewer air leaks.
EF: Energy Factor for water heaters or appliances; the higher the EF, the more energy efficient the model.
A home’s EPS is shown on an energy scale that ranges from zero to 200+ and is based on home energy use of natural gas, electricity, or energy generated from an installed renewable system.
Carbon footprint:
A home’s energy consumption affects carbon emissions and impacts the environment. The carbon calculation for EPS is based on emissions from the utility-specific electricity generation method and natural gas consumption of the home at the time of this report.
Energy: The energy consumption of an average home of similar square footage, heating type and geographical region.
Carbon: The carbon footprint of an average home of similar square footage, heating type, geographical region and utility mix.
This home if built to code: The estimated annual energy and carbon use for this home if it was just built to the minimum standards allowed under code at the time of construction without energy-efficient features installed.
Brought to you by Energy Trust of Oregon
Energy Trust developed EPS to educate about energy efficiency and provide a tool to help inform home-buying decisions.
Energy Trust of Oregon is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to helping utility customers benefit from saving energy and tapping renewable resources. Our services, cash incentives and energy solutions have helped participating customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas save on energy costs. Our work helps keep energy costs as low as possible, creates jobs and builds a sustainable energy future.
