“Energy Skilled” DOE Recognition Provides Easy Green Identifier
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched the “DOE Energy Skilled Recognition” program, with the Certified HERS Rater program officially recognized as “Energy Skilled” in the Home Energy Audit category. This recognition opens new avenues for HERS Raters, as their certification now qualifies for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C), enabling taxpayers to claim deductions for home energy audits, per IRS Notice 2023-59. This initiative positions HERS Raters as essential contributors to energy efficiency improvements, making their services even more valuable to homeowners seeking to enhance energy performance.
In an effort to facilitate this recognition, the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is collaborating with major search engines to develop a system for consumers to easily find certified companies with trained Energy Skilled professionals. To streamline the application process, PNNL has also introduced an online data collection form for rating companies to register. This form focuses on gathering company-level information, ensuring the privacy of individual raters is maintained. This initiative not only enhances visibility for HERS Raters but also reinforces the importance of credentialing in promoting energy-efficient practices across the industry. For more details, visit the DOE’s recognition program site.