Definition:
The Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) is a national program that ranks a building’s energy efficiency in comparison to standard new homes.
This program allows mortgage lenders to determine the relative energy efficiency of buildings that require financing. RESNET maintains a national registry of “Rating Provider” organizations, which in turn certify individuals who work as energy raters.
Under RESNET’s “HERS” ranking system, a standard new home earns a “100” energy rating score, while a less efficient older home that uses more energy gets a higher score (for example, an old home could rank at a less desirable 140).
Highly energy-efficient homes earn a lower scores, with the ideal energy consumption being zero.