45L and The Zero Energy Ready Home Program

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    What is The Zero Energy Ready Home Program?

    The Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program from the U.S. Department of Energy promotes homes with exceptional energy efficiency and comfort. These homes are so efficient that renewable energy systems like solar panels can cover most or all of their annual energy use, aiming for net zero performance.

    Benefits ZERH

    • Energy Savings

      Certified Zero Energy Ready Homes (ZERH) are designed to achieve high performance, using, on average, 35% less energy than typical new homes. This translates to approximately 10% savings on utility bills. These homes also significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supporting local and national climate change goals. As cities increasingly adopt energy performance mandates, owning a ZERH-certified home can help meet evolving regulatory requirements.

    • Increased Property Value and Higher Occupancy Rates

      Homes built to ZERH standards appeal to buyers and renters looking for superior energy performance, durability, and comfort. These high-performance homes often command higher resale values and rental premiums, with occupancy rates frequently surpassing those of conventionally built homes. The added features and reduced operating costs make them more attractive in a competitive housing market.

    • Favorable Loan Terms

      High-performance homes, such as those certified under the ZERH program, are associated with lower default risk, leading some lenders to offer better loan terms and lower interest rates. These financial benefits, combined with the energy savings, make ZERH homes more cost-effective over time and more appealing to both buyers and investors.

    • Regulatory Compliance

      The ZERH program prepares homes to comply with or exceed current and future building codes and energy mandates. By adopting ZERH standards now, builders and homeowners can stay ahead of regulatory changes and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, improving long-term asset value and marketability.

    • Tax and Local Incentives

      Many states and municipalities offer rebates, tax credits, or reduced utility rates for homes built to advanced energy standards, such as ZERH. In some areas, local governments provide expedited permitting or bonus incentives for Zero Energy Ready construction, recognizing its role in advancing sustainability goals.

    • Indoor Air Quality

      To Qualify for the ZERH program, homes must be constructed to meet EPA Indoor airPLUS guidelines, incorporating advanced filtration, moisture control, and ventilation strategies. These features help minimize exposure to pollutants and allergens, creating a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment.

    • Future-Proofing

      Zero Energy Ready Homes are built to exceed today’s energy codes, making them more resilient to rising energy costs and future regulations. Their design supports integration with renewable energy systems, ensuring long-term affordability, comfort, and environmental performance.

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    How Leyton Can Help Get You Certified

    15 Years of Experience with ZERH
    Leyton brings over 15 years of specialized expertise in the Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program. Our experienced team of engineers, energy modelers, and tax experts works closely with contractors to guide them through every step of the process. We ensure all key requirements are met, helping clients qualify for the 45L tax incentive while delivering high-performance homes that meet ZERH standards.

    In-house Energy Modeling
    Alongside our consulting services, we provide thorough in-house energy modeling to enhance your project’s energy efficiency. Our team is well-versed in both the technical aspects of Energy Star and the financial considerations, guaranteeing that you make the most of your potential savings and advantages.

    Specialized Tax Knowledge
    When you choose Leyton, you gain a partner committed to reducing risks and boosting your project’s likelihood of success. We aim to simplify the certification process, offer valuable insights, and support you in confidently reaching your energy efficiency goals. Let us guide you through the intricacies of Energy Star Certification and help you realize your project’s full potential!

    Zero Energy Ready Homes Construction Types

    Single Family New Homes

    Projects that are permitted on or after 1/1/2025 have to meet Version 2 revision 1 of the ZERH single family program. Part of the program is to get Energy Star Version 3.2 certified. In addition, the project must have the wiring and capacity to go all electric if using fossil fuels, have the capacity to install an EV charger and the wiring to install solar panels at some point in the future. Projects must also meet the EPA IndoorAirplus program, and meet certain water efficiency requirements.

    Multifamily New Construction

    Projects permitted on or after 1/1/25 have to meet version 2 revision 1 of the ZERH multifamily program. Projects must be Energy Star Multifamily version 1.2 and EPA IndoorAirplus certified in order to get ZERH. The ZERH multifamily program has many of the same program requirements that the single fmaily program does, including electric ready heating and cooling, EV charger and renewable ready requirements, just with the details of the requirements updated to reflect the multifamily building process. 


    Energy Modeling at Leyton




    Looking for a tax consultancy that handles energy modeling in-house? Leyton is here to save time and maximize your tax savings with our expert in-house energy modeling services. Trust us to streamline the process and deliver results.

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