QUOTES from the episode:

"What raters do makes the difference. Supporting them protects the credibility of the entire ecosystem."

"Energy and water performance are not abstract. They are measurable, verifiable, and they matter to families."

"My role is to protect what works, listen carefully, and help RESNET adapt without losing what makes it special."

In the first RESTalk episode of 2026, Bill Spohn welcomes Shelby Gatlin, the new Executive Director of RESNET©, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, credibility, and the future of home energy ratings. Shelby shares her professional path from conservation-focused work and regulatory advocacy into the residential energy efficiency space, including years spent navigating operational growth and industry change.

Shelby explains why RESNET©'s voluntary standards, third-party verification, and ecosystem of trust matter now more than ever, especially as affordability, comfort, and long-term household costs take center stage. She emphasizes that energy and water performance are not abstract concepts, but measurable outcomes that directly impact homeowners. Throughout the discussion, Shelby underscores the critical role of raters and providers in protecting the integrity and credibility of RESNET© programs.

Looking ahead, Shelby outlines her leadership approach: build on what already works, listen closely to stakeholders, modernize systems where clarity and transparency are needed, and preserve what makes RESNET© unique. She also shares her excitement for her first RESNET© conference as Executive Director and her commitment to empathy, collaboration, and trust across the industry.

Shleby's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-gatlin-59100926/

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us. For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

In this special "Best of RESTALK 2025" episode, host Bill Spohn looks back at the ideas and conversations that defined the year across the RESNET® ecosystem. Rather than a simple highlight reel, this episode weaves four major themes that kept surfacing—from sweeping QA modernization efforts to the market forces accelerating HERS adoption to the emerging leaders reshaping the industry to the on-the-ground projects proving that high performance and affordability can coexist.

Across conversations with QA directors, software leaders, conference fellows, builders, lenders, and RESNET® founder Steve Baden, 2025 revealed an industry that's both maturing and reinventing itself. The year's strongest clips capture this mix of evolution and momentum: real-time QA replacing annual reports, financing that rewards low-carbon construction, programs nurturing new talent, and innovative housing models—from 3D-printed concrete to all-electric Habitat townhomes—delivering measurable results for families.

Whether you're a rater, builder, program manager, lender, policymaker, or simply someone who cares about the future of housing, this episode connects the dots on where RESNET® is headed—and why the next few years will be pivotal for quality, credibility, and impact.

Episodes: EP137, EP140, EP144, EP146
How RESNET® is modernizing QA with real-time data, tech upgrades, stronger staffing, and clearer processes—protecting the credibility of HERS® as volumes scale.

Episodes: EP136, EP138, EP142, EP145, EP146
Why HERS® grows fastest where incentives and financing tools align—and how products like C-PACE and tax credits are turning performance into business value.

Episodes: EP136, EP137, EP138, EP146
The next generation of raters, analysts, and QA specialists entering the field, and how programs like Emerging Leaders keep the talent pipeline strong.

Episodes: EP139, EP141, EP143, EP145, EP146
Real projects—3D-printed homes, ERV best practices, net-zero-ready Habitat homes—showing that innovation and affordability can move together.

• Scott Doyle – Managing Director of QA, RESNET®

• Laurel Elam – Senior Director, RESNET®

• Steve Baden – Executive Director & RESNET® Founder

• Tricia Baker – Senior VP of Strategy & Impact, PACE Equity

• Carl Pier – In-house Engineer & HERS® Modeler, PACE Equity

• Emerging Leaders & Fellows – RESNET® ELC participants

• Raters, Builders & Habitat Teams from EP139, EP143, and others

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us.

For more info on this topic, contact RESNET® at INFO@RESNET.US

"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." 

– John F. Kennedy
 

In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn welcomes the 2025 Emerging Leadership Council (ELC) fellows—Jennifer Goldberg, Dorian Gothard, and Alex Haworth—for an insightful discussion on their career journeys, experiences at the RESNET conference, and their visions for the future of energy efficiency and building science.

Each fellow shares how they entered the industry, what drew them to the ELC program, and how they apply their knowledge professionally and personally. The conversation covers key takeaways from the RESNET conference, including the industry's ambitious goal of 1 million HERS ratings by 2028, the importance of HVAC grading, and the role of building science in improving homes and communities.

Throughout the episode, the fellows highlight the value of collaboration, education, and continuous learning, inspiring those new to the industry and seasoned professionals. Whether you're a rater, builder, or someone passionate about energy efficiency, this episode provides valuable insights into the next generation of industry leaders shaping the future.

Here are the LinkedIn profiles for our podcast guests:

Alex Haworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-haworth-aa1b90227/

Jennifer Goldberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-goldberg-4688b6107/

Dorian Gothard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorian-gothard/

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us.

For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Human beings are very good at adapting to what happens

-John Hurt

Building science is building science.

Science doesn't care. It just is.

Applications for a HERS Rater's knowledge of building science are out there.

Sometimes where you'd least expect them.

Recorded in April 2020, today's topic is tuned in to the current pandemic, perhaps, in an unexpected way.

Join us as we speak with Matthew Cooper, Senior Vice President at PEG, LLC about how his company is supporting the healthcare community by providing third-party isolation room monitoring.

Matthew starts with an overview of PEG's 22-year history and how the company evolved into the multifaceted organization it is today, including becoming a HERS Rating Provider and RESNET 100,000 Homes Club member.

 
We discuss the PEG team's previous experience in the healthcare setting and how they are now providing independent monitoring of hospital isolation rooms, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) rooms and Emergency Rooms where suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients are being cared for. 

As to the point that science doesn't care, monitoring includes differential pressure, temperature and relative humidity which are all key factors in isolating airborne infection patients for the protection of both healthcare workers and other patients. These parameters should be immediately recognizable to the HERS rater.

For question or follow up please reach out to Matthew at MCooper@pegenv.com

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Changes and progress are very rarely gifts from above. They come out of struggles from below.

-Noam Chomsky

The code development process is complex and time consuming.

Yet the results drive much of the work done by raters.

Insights into this process from a knowledgeable guide are immensely valuable.

Join us as we speak with Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET, about the changes coming in the 2021 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). He reviews for us the key results of the latest changes that will impact HERS Raters and the builders they work with. 

Beginning with a quick overview of the code development process, we move into a discussion of the incorporation of the 2019 versions of Standards 301 and 380.

We get into a good discussion over the details on what is happen to the ERI including an insider's explanation of the voting process and why the Performance Path seems to be the trend. Cool note: Ryan was a co-author of the original ERI.

You will find some details on the differences between the ERI and HERS index scores in Ryan's blog post here:

https://www.resnet.us/articles/the-iecc-energy-rating-index-and-hers-index-whats-the-difference/

Or use this short link: www.bit.ly/ERI-HERS

We wrap the discussion looking some of the next tasks for Ryan in his role as Program Director at RESNET

For question or follow up you can always reach Ryan at Ryan@Resnet.us

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Follow effective action with quiet reflection. 

From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.

-Peter Drucker

As RESNET looks towards the future, significant effort is being placed in recruiting and retaining members of the broader RESNET community.

There is no better way to do this than invite people to "the table".

The RESNET Board has done this in a big way by creating the Emerging Leadership Council Fellowship which deeply engages people new to the industry.

Joins us as we chat today with the three 2020 ELC fellows: Aaron Hope (Southern Energy Management, Raleigh, NC), Rachel LaMantia (EnergyLogic, Berthoud, CO) and Manon Shankle (Virdiant, Richmond, VA)

Come listen as each of the fellow shares with us their background, experiences and passion for their work. One common theme we heard was their unique responses and reactions to being named 2020 Fellows. They share with us their reflections and actions taken.

Learn more about this year's fellows by following this link

https://www.resnet.us/raters/emerging-leadership-council-elc/fellows/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

The big picture doesn't just come from distance; it also comes from time.

-Simon Sinek

RESNET recognizes the COVID-19 pandemic will have a huge impact on HERS® Raters and Rating Providers.

The RESNET Board Executive Committee has swiftly stepped in to make important decisions.

RESNET is ever more diligent about how business is being done and working together with members of the HERS Industry to navigate through this. 

It will take time.

RESNET Executive Director Steve Baden and Deputy Director Cardice Gray-Howard join us today in this special episode to discuss their reactions to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the actions that have been taken.

Various steps have already been put in place such as modifications to QA testing and Payment terms for rating fees. Other options are also being considered.

For complete and up to date information follow the "RESNET COVID-19 Updates" link at the top of the RESNET.us homepage.

RESNET has put in place a dedicated email address (COVID19info@resnet.us ) that will go directly to the Quality Assurance Team for QA questions and concerns. This email address is for specific questions to the QA team regarding remote QA, reporting, etc.

RESNET believes in the power of our tight knit community to get through this situation stronger and more united over time.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

It's very hard to complain about society if you don't get involved.

-George Prescott Bush

Getting involved.

Putting yourself out there, so to speak.

Leaving your comfort zone.

It doesn't have to be scary.

It can be quite thrilling and satisfying, especially if your new ideas are encouraged, listened to and acted upon.

In 2016, the RESNET Board created the Emerging Leadership Council (ELC) to help recruit, mentor and motivate the future leaders of RESNET and the home building performance industry.

Today we are joined by Leo Jansen, of Energy Efficient Homes Midwest, one of very few (the only?) rater/provider organizations operating in the second generation.

Leo has been the Chair of the ELC since February 2019 and is demonstrating his leadership by helping to nurture the next generation of RESNET Leaders.

Leo describes the goals of the ELC as focusing on recruitment of new raters, retention of existing raters and ELC membership opportunities afforded to those that join.

Made up of over 30 (and growing) diverse professionals, Leo stresses the group is for those new to the industry; age is not a determining factor for membership. Leo is managing to make great progress by using digital communication tools as well as forming limited task groups for members to manage.

The ELC is developing many unique activities, including conducting their very first video competition in 2019. You can learn more about it and look for the "call' for the 2020 video contest in updates on the ELC page of the RESNET site.

The group also hosts a fellowship opportunity for new professionals in the industry to attend the annual RESNET conference free of charge.

Additionally, the ELC coordinates a community related volunteer event in the host city of the conference each year.

If you would like to learn more check out the ELC page here:

www.resnet.us/raters/emerging-leadership-council-elc/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort.

-Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Most of us enjoy tackling challenges, especially creative people like architects. 

Now combine a creative design challenge along with surpassing a HERS 30 score and other stringent criteria and things get interesting.

And then beat the target score with a Net Zero achievement and have the winning plans freely shared to the public; now that's joy in achievement!

In 2016 Mark Hartman, Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Phoenix created a competition for Arizona architects to encourage the construction of ultra-low energy use homes. This is in support of the ambitious 2050 Sustainability Goals adopted by the Mayor of Phoenix and the Phoenix City Council.

Mark worked in partnership with Caroline Lobo, formerly leader of the American Institute of Architects, Arizona (AIA), to hold a Sustainable Home Design Competition. The goal was for a "near net-zero energy" single-family home with the best potential for wide-spread adoption in the region. 

Marlene Imirzian of Imirzian Architects created the winning design of an affordable, three-bedroom home, that went beyond and achieved a HERS rating of zero.

She calls is HOME nz.

Lend your ears to this interesting story and feel the energy and joy that I sensed recording this podcast live at the RESNET 2020 Home Performance Conference.

Join over 5000 others and download the free plans at this link: https://www.phoenix.gov/sustainability/home

If you would like to learn more, please contact:

Mark Hartman, Chief Sustainability Officer, City of Phoenix: mark.hartman@phoenix.gov

Marlene Imirzian, Imirzian Architects: mimirzian@imirzian-architects.com

Caroline Lobo, American Institute of Architects, Arizona: info@suoll.com

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves.

-Ray Kroc

There's usually only one chance in the life of a home to get the insulation right.

To get it right, insulation installers need training, experience and standards to adhere to.

What does it take to be the top in this field?

David Beam believes it comes from a company's leadership.

David Beam, President & CEO of Insulate America, shares with us his insights into what it takes to become America's best insulation installer.

David explains how important it is to balance time and quality efforts in order to run a successful insulation job and business. 

For the last 2 decades, David has been involved the prestigious annual Insulation Installation contest that is co-sponsored by Insulate America and Johns-Manville. He tells us about the history of the contest and fierce competition and tight timelines involved for the 40 competitors. The winners walk away with trophies, bragging rights and cash prizes.

But, more importantly, David tells us of the impressive coaching, education and mentoring that goes on amongst the over 150 people that attend the event each fall. 

Learn more about this year's event at this site: https://information.insulationinstitute.org/blog/meet-americas-best-installer

And look for the call to compete in the late summer of every year.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

To succeed today, you have to set priorities, decide what you stand for.

-Lee Iacocca

To move ahead, people, organizations, communities all need priorities to focus their attention and direct their energies.

RESNET has sharpened its focus on three topics for 2020.

In this Episode, Steve Baden shares with us the ambitious priorities that will lead towards the goals RESNET has set for 2020.

Steve gives us background and context for the initiatives which include:

Energy Code Compliance

Steve explains why it follows that HERS Raters are recognized by code officials as the "go-to-option" for code verification 

HERS H2O Water Efficiency Rating System

Grading the Efficiency of the Installation of the HVAC System of a Home

These plans will be announced at the General Session of the at 2020 RESNET Conference and covered in detail in various breakout sessions. The conference is set for February 24-26, 2020 in Scottsdale, AZ

Learn more and sign up for the conference at  www.resnet.us/conference/scottsdale-2020/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

To study consumer behavior is to explore human nature at its most fundamental level using the modern world as a backdrop.

-Gad Saad

What is on the mind of the housing consumer?

How important is a rated home?

What kind of consumers are attracted to buy rated homes?

Listen in as Steve Baden shares details and insights into a new housing study conducted by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC), a government enterprise more commonly known as Freddie Mac.

This study found that HERS rated homes sold for an average of 2.7% more than comparable unrated homes. And homes with lower HERS Index Scores selling for 3 – 5% more than homes with higher scores. The study also found that buyers of HERS rated homes also have more desirable mortgage profiles.

Steve covers the reasons and process involved in this study that merged HERS data from a random sampling of about 70,000 HERS rated homes with about 380,000 non-rated homes adding credit bureau data to gain insights into the profiles of buyers.

Learn how this study shows how so many stakeholders can win from the implementation of rated homes. Get the best perspective by attending the annual conference session on this topic.

Download a copy of the study here: www.bit.ly/FMStudy-RESNET

This study shows that the right kind of consumers are appreciating and responding to the way a HERS rating communicates the value of a home's energy performance.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Collaboration is a key part of the success of any organization, executed through a clearly defined vision and mission based on transparency and constant communication.

-Dinesh Paliwal

Putting together a conference is no mean feat.

I know. I have tried.

Putting together a conference at the level of RESNET conferences, is an awesome challenge that is handled so well by the RESNET staff.

The annual conference is one of the largest communications and community building activities produced by RESNET.

Listen in as we talk with Emma Bennett and Steve Baden about the RESNET 2020 conference coming up February 24-26, 2020 in Scottsdale, AZ

Hear how this interactive conference is built by the participants via session submissions and polling – a true grassroots effort of what the community finds of interest.

This is an unique chance to interact with the thought leaders and practitioners that shape the rating industry. Time for you to become an influencer and be influenced! This is an unrivalled chance to network.

Learn of the three initiatives that embody the RESNET 2020 plan:

Expansion of Raters into code Verification

The launch of the HERS H2O rating system

The launch of the HVAC system efficiency rating system

You'll also get a snapshot of the 120 session topics, including three offsite tours and the community give-back activity with Habitat for Humanity. Plus, a chance to see over 50 product & serivce exhibitors.

More details on the conference at  www.resnet.us/conference/scottsdale-2020/

If you have any questions drop an email to info@resnet.us

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

"Excellence is never an accident. It results from high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities."
 

– Aristotle (adapted interpretation)

In this insightful episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn interviews three key members of RESNET's team.: Ryan Moore, Jordi Kimbrough in Quality Assurance, and Michael Matthews in Programs. Each brings a unique background and perspective to their roles, strengthening RESNET's mission to ensure high-quality standards in energy-efficient home ratings.

Ryan Moore, the Quality Assurance Investigations Program Manager, shares his journey from a varied background in environmental studies, construction, and tourism to his pivotal role at RESNET. Ryan emphasizes the importance of a level playing field in the rating industry, using investigations to ensure compliance and education among stakeholders.

Jordi Kimbrough, Quality Assurance Project Manager, reflects on her serendipitous entry into the rating world and her focus on making providers' challenging roles more manageable. She highlights her goals of streamlining processes, providing training, and gathering feedback to reduce ambiguity and enhance the industry's efficiency.

Michael Matthews, Programs Engagement Specialist, rounds out the conversation with his passion for connecting people and advancing energy efficiency. From his early days in weatherization to his current role, Michael facilitates stakeholder conversations, promotes better building practices, and supports t's RESNET's ambitious goals.

The episode concludes with discussing the value of teamwork, service, and a shared commitment to sustainability, underscoring the human connection behind RESNET's impactful work.

Here is the contact info for our guests:

Jordi Kimbrough: Jordi@resnet.us

Michael Matthews Michael@resnet.us, https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-matthews-a8931928/

Ryan Moore: Ryanmoore@resnet.us, https://www.linkedin.com/in/rymoore/

Here is a link to the complaint resolution process:

https://www.hersindex.com/about-resnet/complaint-resolution-process/

and the Complaint form
https://www.hersindex.com/file-complaint-resolution/

Job Posting for Regional Positions for QA specialists: (Posted 12-4-24)

https://www.resnet.us/articles/job-posting-resnet-qa-compliance-specialists-regional-positions/

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us.

For more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

- Modified from John "Hannibal" Smith from the A-Team TV Series

Open communication.
Creative solutions.
Engaged dialog.

These are just a few of the qualities embodied by RESNET's QA team of Laurel Elam, Scott Doyle and Billy Giblin. 

Or the A-Team as they are called by colleagues.

In this podcast, we get an interactive overview of the QA team's activities over the past year.

Scott explains some new pilot programs which incentivize quality assurance efforts while Laurel covers the partnerships with RESNET providers engaged in utility programs.

Laurel gives insight into policy improvements which stand to reduce the time burden of certain quality assurance activities while Scott discusses the evolution of Quality Assurance Designee (QAD) training. 

We also hear where the infield visits have taken Billy, across climate zones and learn of his choices for the best places to eat!

Billy and Scott wrap up the conversation by covering some of the valuable feedback received from providers during both face to face visits and online review meetings.

You can reach the QA team by email:

Laurel@RESNET.US Scott@RESNET.US Billy@RESNET.US

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

When you have a system, you kind of get in a routine of what's important. And then you spend a lot more time on thinking of things that would make it better.

-Nick Saban

Structured thinking.

Systems thinking. 

Our guest today (and his company) embody systems thinking at a very high level. 

Panelization in construction is a very structured, systematic topic. If you are not familiar with panelized construction, you soon will be.

When you dig into it, panelized construction has its roots in the 1950s. In 2014, the top 20 US builders used panelization in roughly 40% of their builds. Yet, overall, modular, precut and panelized construction amounted to only 3.6% of the market in 2016.

Anthony Grisolia, Managing Director Innovation at IBACOS, joins us to discuss the history, background, process and role of the HERS rater in the world of panelized construction.

Anthony shares with us his technical and market understanding of panelization and its relationship to costs, labor and BIM (Building Information Modeling).

He discussed the implications for HERS raters across the range of panelization modes with regard to topics like: where the inspection process takes place, as some of the traditional inspections can be done in the manufacturing plant and duct and air tightness testing which still need to be completed on building site.

You can reach Anthony by sending an email to his attention at agrisolia@ibacos.com

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.

-Soren Kierkegaard

If anyone could write a book for understanding life in the housing market, it's Jeff Bentley. His understanding comes from many years of living the experience forwards, in a variety of roles.

Carpenter, builder, rater and realtor, this self-identified kid in the classroom that always asked why, Jeff Bentley has developed a keen understanding of what goes into making a high-performance home and which aspects uniquely interest prospective buyers.

Jeff is a 4th generation home builder turned realtor who has personally supervised the construction of over 4,000 homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth market. He acutely understands that buyers buy on emotion, yet they justify the costs (money and time) with logic.

Jeff has assisted clients in designing and building high performance, energy efficient homes. Including the first LEED Gold home in Frisco, TX. 

He shares with us his five rules: take care of the customer, train continuously, top down commitment, verify the work, be willing to evolve.

In his writings, he suggests that every superintendent and operations person should be energy rater certified, so that energy raters wouldn't need to be the "kW police".  He believes these concepts, many of which are embodied in RESNET standards, have changed homebuilding forever.

He stresses the importance of air sealing and accountability of the trades yielding work properly completed the first time and the concept that quality is still free! 

His experience and capabilities guide his clients in selecting architects, home builders, lots, lenders and subcontractors or suppliers. His clients enjoy a high-performance home while the maximizing the benefits of energy tax credits, utility rebates and supplier discounts.

Jeff shares what he has learned within his company and at national appraisers' conferences. You can reach out to Jeff at jdbentley27@yahoo.com

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

The success of a production depends on the attention paid to detail.

-David O. Selznick

Building any new home requires tremendous attention to detail.

And if you are looking for high performance features, the details skyrocket.

The details of what a customer wants, what materials and designs are available and proven are super critical for proper integration into a sometimes unique, yet always complex system.

If only there were a way to collect and evaluate these details in advance to improve performance, lower cost and shorten build times.

Well… there is.

Multi-award-winning builder, Jay Epstein joins us to discuss Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems and how they can integrate and connect all the building plans across the trades.

Across his 30+ year career as a builder in Virginia, Jay always strives to appeal to a buyer's senses, while searching for simplicity of the build.

He shares key insights like understanding a new home buyer's perspective by reflecting on the house they are coming from and how using BIM for a high-performance home can achieve cost neutrality (or better) than market rate "equivalent" homes. He serves as the interpreter between technical numbers and a customer's expectations.

We also get to take a virtual walk through some of the communities that he has built and is building. The road to these results is paved with research and learning from subcontractors and consultants, like his HERS raters. 

Jay can be reached at Jay@HEC-VA.COM and you can see some of his latest work at www.WFSolarHomes.com – the first Zero Net Energy Ready community in Virginia.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

ICC and RESNET Collaborate to Increase Energy Code Compliance and Home Energy Efficiency

When you need to innovate, you need collaboration.

- Marissa Mayer

Mark Johnson, Executive VP and Director of Business Development for the International Code Council (ICC) joins RESNET Executive Director Steve Baden to review their joint goals and activities associated with increasing energy code compliance which drives towards the outcome of increasing residential energy efficiency.

They review activities that are designed to build trust and creditability with code officials while helping to relieve some of the officials ever increasing work load, by allowing officials to focus on the public safety aspects as an ICC Certified HERS Rater focusses on the energy and building science aspects.

HERS Raters proudly bring their attributes of training and certification through RESNET's Gold Standard which provides oversight as a national third-party quality assurance process.

Additionally, transparency is delivered through the RESNET National Buildings Registry which will soon include a code official portal for immediate code document review.

So far, 200 HERS Raters have trained and been certified by ICC for energy code plans review and inspection. Raters that attend the National conference have a unique opportunity to train and be tested in a pre-conference session. This certification can easily add to their rating business' "product line".

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

It's true: teamwork makes the dream work.

-Natalya Neidhart

It used to be that designing and building a Net Zero home was a far-fetched idea.

Now, there are several Net Zero competitions with utilities, raters, builders and home owners working together to raise public awareness of this accelerating trend showcasing the benefits of building beyond code requirements.

Join us to hear Mike Loughlin program manager with the utility, Eversource, and Joe Rando, a senior engineering assistant and HERS rater with GDS Associates, describe the Drive to Net Zero Competition which is starting into its third year in New Hampshire.

We learn about background and details of the competition and hear about the 2018 winners including a deep dive into the five criteria which define the competition.

Joe describes the HERS rating and ENERGY STAR® certification services GDS Associates provided for the winning high-performance home. While Mike discusses leveraging the benefits of state level supported energy efficiency programs and the continued partnership with the region's utility providers and building industry.

Like many companies involved in HERS ratings GDS works with the local utilities and builders to assist in the pivotal market transformation that continues to bring recognition to the benefits of building comfortable, durable, healthy and efficient homes. 

Mike offers his contact info for anyone considering developing such a program in their area: Michael.Loughlin@Eversource.com

For more info see the press release:

https://www.nhbr.com/best-practices-in-homebuilding-energy-efficiency-honored/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Real, sustainable community change requires the initiative and engagement of community members.

-Helene D. Gayle

RESNET plays a big role in the Home Energy ecosystem.

Part of RESNET's role is to give a voice to the variety of organizations involved.

Some of these organizations are suppliers of materials and equipment essential to the management and control of energy and other factors in homes.

Staff member Ryan Meres joins us in this podcast to describe why RESNET formed the Suppliers Advisory Board (SAB), its activities and the benefits to organizations that join.

One of the key benefits is data from rated homes. SAB members periodically receive a supplier intelligence report: a rich insight into the trends in building practices. This data is derived from the over 2.5 million (and growing) rated homes in the US.

These insights often describe state and regional variations into the types of equipment installed, as well as home performance factors such as insulation levels and envelope leakage data and even instances of on-site power production, amongst many other factors.

In several cases, this data can be used to bolster the impact of arguments in the code adoption process.

Some of the other benefits include a booth at the annual conference, Webinars

and access to the HERS Affiliate Training course. The course provides product supplier representatives and sales staff with an understanding of how RESNET's Home Energy Rating System (HERS) works.

To learn more about the Suppliers Advisory board visit, www.resnet.us/about/sab/

Or at this link to jump right to the benefits:

www.resnet.us/about/sab/resnet-suppliers-advisory-board-benefits/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

What is the RESNET Index Adjustment Factor (IAF)

with Philip Fairey of the Florida Solar Energy Center

Taste as you go. When you taste the food throughout the cooking process you can adjust as you go.

-Anne Burrell

Feedback (tasting) and adjusting make a better recipe.

RESNET is all about feedback.

Join us as Philip Fairey, Deputy Director of the Florida Solar Energy Center and Secretary of the RESNET Board of Directors unravels the story behind the development of the Index Adjustment Factor (IAF), also called the Home Size adjustment factor in Addendum E-2018.

The IAF stemmed from anecdotal reports that unwarranted HERS credit was given to larger homes, or that smaller homes were penalized. 

These inequities in rating calculation were believed to be caused by the presence of two factors causing the HERS index to fall: larger conditioned floor area and greater number of stories. Additionally one factor, a greater number of bedrooms, was observed to be causing the index to rise.

After extensive research and detailed modeling, the IAF was developed and has helped to significantly reduce the range of variation for all three factors.

To learn more, including in depth technical details, see slides from Philip's presentation at the 2019 RESNET Conference at this link: www.bit.ly/RESNET-IAF

The IAF is baked in to the modeling software and does not cause any change to the responsibilities of a Rater or RFI and does not increase the cost of HERS ratings.

NOTE: HERS Raters will be required to use the size adjustment compliant software on homes that are issued a building permit on or after January 1, 2019..

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

 I have always believed in helping your fellow man is profitable in every sense, personally and the bottom line.

-Mario Puzo

For some, a broader definition of housing includes more than just rental cost.

It also includes energy, water, transportation and healthcare – where in many cases the location has impact on Indoor Air Quality.

Listen in as RESNET Board member Abe Kruger (SK Collaborative) describes how half of his work now relates to working with states to help determine ways that lead to improving this broader definition of affordable housing.

Many of the skills he learned and knowledge he acquired in the course of his career as a HERS rater now come into play in the assessment of affordable housing.

Learn about the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) has created 3 million affordable housing units across the country as well the impact being made by the policy tool of Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) in market-rate housing

If you would like to learn more, get in touch with Abe by emailing him at Abe@SKCollaborative.com

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Moving Towards the Integrated Home – Connected, Interactive, Interoperable, AND Efficient

Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.

-John F. Kennedy

Tim Carter (Georgia Power) & Shon Richey (Alabama Power) join us today to discuss two very forward-thinking Smart Neighborhood projects that address grid balancing and consumer engagement amongst other objectives.

They reveal how new home programs are looking beyond just asset-based performance of homes by considering many other factors including the time and location-based value of efficiency as well as non-energy benefits that flow from an integrated, connected (two-way communication) home. 

We dive deep into the concepts of the home of the future, as well as the 'utility of the future' which will impact the design and methods used in new construction.

You will hear about utility offerings designed to achieve objectives beyond traditional energy efficiency, such as load management and behavior change.

You can download a copy of the slides from Tim and Shon's session at the 2019 RESNET conference by following this link: http://conference.resnet.us/data/energymeetings/presentations/MovingTowardsIntegratedHome1.pdf

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Networking is not about just connecting people. 

It's about connecting people with ideas and opportunities

-Michele Jennae

In this episode of RESTalk, Bill Spohn chats with Clara Hedrick, Lead Events Coordinator for RESNET®, to discuss the upcoming 2025 RESNET® Conference. Clara shares the event details, which is set to take place from January 26-29, 2025, in Tempe, Arizona. Attendees can look forward to engaging sessions, dynamic networking opportunities, and exciting receptions hosted by sponsors like NAIMA and Knauf. Clara highlights the innovative offerings this year, including a live demonstration of the new RESNET® insulation grading standard and Knauf's VR training system.

Clara also delves into the conference's tracks, which cover a broad range of topics such as building science, workforce development, and energy codes. Special events like the offsite Fulton Homes tour and training opportunities add further value to the conference. Looking ahead, Clara announces future RESNET® conference locations: San Antonio, TX in 2026 and Savannah, Georgia, in 2027, both offering unique settings for continued learning and connection.

Bill wraps up by encouraging listeners to explore the conference page at resnet.us/2025 for more details and download the WHOVA app to easily access schedules, session info, and networking opportunities.

Here's the link to the conference website:

https://whova.com/web/1qIMgnn8Jh5Y4xsupaZaVuFO57dR7GOfzNfNibqilSE%3D/

To reach the conference team, you can email them at: conference@resnet.us

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us.

Or for more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

California Dreamin' - RESNET HERS® Ratings Soon to be Recognized in California

It's shown and proved that hard work pays off. Make goals, achieve them, make new goals.

-Lance Gross

Ryan Meres (RESNET) and Matt Christie (Associate Director, TRC) join us to review the five-year journey where RESNET and the California Energy Commission (CEC) have been working together to bring the California and RESNET energy rating standards into harmony. 

Listen in as we learn about the recent changes to the California energy code (Title 24), including a new compliance path called the Energy Design Rating (EDR), which move the two rating systems into closer alignment. 

Matt reviews the progress on the four major pillars are being addressed. For example, both systems need to use the same reference home (based on the 2006 IECC) to create a score.

We will also hear about some of the driving forces behind these changes as well as the variations that will make the EDR and RESNET HERS scores different. 

The discussion also touches on net zero energy buildings and the tie in with on-site power systems and batteries noted in the HERS score

These efforts will bring the RESNET HERS index closer into alignment with the California energy code as well as provide an example by which future versions of the IECC could be modeled to achieve a net zero energy code for the rest of the country. 

You can reach Matt through TC at www.TRCcompanies.com and you can reach Ryan at Ryan@RESNET.us

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional 

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

"Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others." – Jonathan Swift

Efficiency is invisible, yet energy efficiency represents the largest, cheapest and healthiest means of reducing the global temperature increase. Achieving good energy efficiency also results in better occupant comfort, health, and productivity as well as creating jobs and equity.

The United States is one of 190 nations that is committed to pursuing efforts to limit temperature increase to 1.5 degrees C above pre-industrial levels. Even back-of-the-envelope analysis shows that this goal will be impossible to achieve without deep retrofits of almost all buildings. In this podcast David Goldstein explores how this might be accomplished, reviewing several options, given that such a program has never been undertaken at this scale before and inherently requires multiple and simultaneous plans and actions by a wide range of stakeholders.   

David notes the need to take a "whole building" approach to retrofits rather than more common approaches today which emphasize specific widgets or systems. He also emphasizes the need for new methods of approaching building valuation since energy cost savings alone often will not cover the entire cost of renovations. We discuss the need for technical innovation in building construction methods and for electric technologies for supplying heat and hot water to buildings. Finally, we consider the impact of deep retrofits on all buildings to the electricity grid as well as the natural gas system.

We also discuss the pathways to accomplish this goal with the minimal practical cost disruption and transfer payments from program administrators to property owners. The scale of this endeavor- very roughly $3-$4 trillion- would strain the budgets of current and prospective administrators. You'll hear about a set of paths that, if rapidly implemented, could set us on a practical rather than political approach to meeting the Paris accord.

Follow this link for a copy of David's slides on this topic from a presentation he gave at the 2019 RESNET conference: http://conference.resnet.us/data/energymeetings/presentations/Goldstein RESNET retrofits 2019 02.pdf

I'm not trying to 'cause a big s-s-sensation (talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm just talkin' 'bout my g-g-g-generation (talkin' 'bout my generation)

~ My Generation (The Who)

Generational differences: they can be hard to ignore, and sometimes cause unnecessary conflict.

However, those of different generations working together often speak of more enriching experiences.

Listen in as we talk about generations with Clint Shireman of Knauf Insulation. Clint summarizes for us what he has learned about the differences in the generations and how differences impact the work environment, especially the construction trades.

We discuss the definitions and group sizes of the five generations currently in the work force while noting the impacts made by historical, societal, and lately the technological and communication related changes that affect all generations in different ways.

From Baby Boomers, to helicopter parents, to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, the conversation covers a lot of ground as these topics relate to hiring, setting expectations and retaining employees of all generations.

Follow these links for a copy of Clint's' slides and notes on this topic from a presentation he gave at the 2019 RESNET conference.

www.bit.ly/ClintSlides www.bit.ly/ClintNotes

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

As coaches say, it's about finding your role. We're coming together as a team. Brock Osweiler

"I learned no detail was too small. It was all about the details." – Brad Grey

In this episode we speak with Ryan Meres, Program Director at RESNET about his experiences at the recent committee action hearings of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)

Out of the 37 proposals identified for RESNET Board review, 13 were determined to be RESNET's top priorities. Ryan tracked and testified on these 13 priority proposals during the Spring 2019 Hearings.   

Listen in as Ryan shares an overview of the Code Development Process which include Committee Action Hearings followed by Public Comment Hearings.

He will also describe the proposals that RESNET focused on, from both the point of support and opposition.

You'll hear updates on the incorporation of Standards 301 and 380 and gain an understanding of why and how RESNET looks to maintain similarities in the ERI path and HERS index.

Learn about an interesting proposal for a new compliance path based on BTUh targets for heating and cooling loads for each climate zone,

Follow this link to view Ryan's blog post on this topic: https://www.resnet.us/blog/

If you want to receive updates on Ryan's work with codes, email Ryan at Ryan@RESNET.us

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

The North Star - For some it is a compass direction. The direction to follow.

For others following your North Star means sticking to an important mission.

Let's follow the important mission happening in green housing in the North Star State.

Listen in as we discover the team work that has been rallied to create the Minnesota's Green Path.

Tom Gavaras of the BATC-Housing First Minnesota and Ross Anderson of the Energy Network Worldwide detail out the synergies they have created in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

They describe the strategies they have employed which have successfully brought together utilities, the builder community, and raters to grow recognition of green building techniques generally and more specifically, to promote the HERS rating.

We'll hear about Minnesota's Green Path in which the utilities help the raters and the builder's association highlight energy-efficient building techniques via the promotion of the HERS index through its Parade of Homes, home tours and related publications, website, marketing, and social media.

Green Path is the leading energy efficiency and green building program for the residential construction industry in Minnesota.

Created by BATC-Housing First Minnesota in 2011, the program has provided Home Performance Reports to more than 18,000 newly built homes highlighting RESNET's HERS score and the tested air exchange rate.

Tom and Ross describe how you can leverage the connections of your local or state association to continue elevating energy-efficient building.

You can reach Tom and download the checklist he mentions at: www.MNGreenPath.org

You can reach Ross via www.MBPA.us, the Minnesota Building Performance Contractors Association.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

As coaches say, it's about finding your role. We're coming together as a team. Brock Osweiler

Access to clean, abundant water is critical to the maintenance and growth of society. And this is not just a regional or US theme, it is a global issue.   In this joint podcast with ICC Pulse, RESTalk host Bill Spohn interviews RESNET Program Director Ryan Meres and Code Council Executive Director of Sustainability Programs Dave Walls about the new water ratings standard, water efficiency and conservation.   We learn about the upcoming joint RESNET ICC standard 1101: Water Rating index and How HERS H2O fits in the picture.   We cover a lot of ground on the topic: ranging from piping to conversation to rain water harvesting, including indoor and outdoor use.   You can learn more about ICC efforts at www.iccsafe.org/ and about the HERS H2O standard here: http://www.resnet.us/professional/about/resnet_to_develop_water_efficiency_rating_system   NOTE: The building that Dave mentions in the podcast is the Ziggurat Building in West Sacramento, CA. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ziggurat  RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.   Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Attention to detail is important in so many facets of life.

Certainly, in dealing with people.

And also, when dealing with things.

Listen in as we hear about how the details of proper air sealing can make such a difference in the comfort, performance and energy efficiency of the thing we all hold so near and dear; the home.

Our guest in this podcast, Charlie Haack is the Director of Technical Services for NAIMA, the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association.

Charlie's background in architecture and in field work with energy star homes gives him great perspective to discuss the multifaceted aspects of moving the concepts of better air sealing into common practice.

Sometimes it amounts to not overlooking the big holes, as "air will find a way". At other times, it's a combination of factors that needs to be addressed.

Based on research work from Owens-Corning, NAIMA has put together a guide to the top 5 Priorities in Air Sealing Locations:

https://insulationinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/N090-5-Air-Sealing-Locations-for-New-Homes.pdf

From state and national code hearings, to contractors' guides, to technical presentations, and keeping up with green certification programs, NAIMA is tackling the good work that needs to be done in this area.

Go to www.insulationinstitute.org to learn more from the in-depth resources they provide.

Other interesting reference on their site include:

• What Builders want from Home Raters:

http://information.insulationinstitute.org/guide-to-understanding-builders-want-from-hers-raters

• Building Science 101:

http://information.insulationinstitute.org/free-building-science-101-guide

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

At times we all wish we had a crystal ball.

You know, something to help you see into the future.

What if the crystal ball was a gateway into your imagination, your own personal vision of what you could help accomplish in the future?

Pretty awesome, right?

That's the spirit of our conversation today with these fine "fellows" in this podcast

Elizabeth Sanfelippo, Jonathan Gensler and Xavier Walter applied for and were selected to be the RESNET Emerging Leadership Council Fellows in 2019.

In today's episode we will hear about the similarities and differences in their backgrounds, as well as contrasting the opportunities and challenges in the regions in which they work.

We also learn of their hopes and goals for the future of the industry and their concrete plans to achieve their goals.

One common theme developed was that of being an inspiration and offering to teach, train and educate on a regular basis to help their markets progress.

We close with a challenge given to them by the host of the podcast.

Listen in and be inspired.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Perspective.

While the first dictionary definition may come first to mind for our technical listeners:

the art of drawing solid objects on a two-dimensional surface so as to give the right impression of their height, width, depth, and position in relation to each other when viewed from a particular point.

It is the second dictionary definition we will pivot from today:

a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view.

In this episode we chat with Terry Duszynski. Terry has been working in the fields of general contracting and energy auditing since the early 80s.

He has the honor of being the first HERS rater of record.

Terry has interacted with Steve Baden since before RESNET existed.

Listen in as we gain perspective on the field of energy rating and learn how much has changed over the decades and see what remains the same.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

 ***NOTE:

While the podcast mentions an upcoming session at the 2019 RESNET Conference, the podcast was recorded before the conference took place and published after the conference took place. ***

Big Sky, Montana: literally one of the biggest sky views on earth.

A great place for great ideas to be born.

At the 2018 HabitatX Conference an idea germinated from conversations between Steve Baden (RESNET.us) and Robin LeBaron (PearlCertification.com).

They discussed how HERS ratings and Pearl Certifications could complement each other rather than add another layer of complexity for consumers of high-performance homes.

Listen in as we hear how this conversation moved to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed and how quickly work has begun in earnest, with a pilot study comparing the correlation of HERS scores to Pearl "Metals" in the Phoenix, AZ housing market.

Robin spills the beans on some early correlation data that you will want to hear.

For raters: Conducting 3rd party asset inventories for Pearl Certification might be an additional career fit.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." 

– Eleanor Roosevelt

Welcome to a special episode of RESTalk: "Best of RESTalk 2024"! This year has been transformative for RESNET® and the residential energy efficiency industry. From setting bold goals to launching innovative tools and forming impactful collaborations, 2024 has redefined what's possible in energy efficiency and sustainability. In this episode, we revisit the year's most insightful and impactful moments, featuring highlights from the conversations that shaped the industry.

Join us as we dive into the ambitious goal of achieving 1 million RESNET® HERS ratings annually, explore the evolution of new QA tools, and unpack the growing Build-to-Rent housing trend. We'll also reflect on RESNET®'s strides in water and carbon efficiency programs and the game-changing advocacy efforts that have amplified energy efficiency policies nationwide.

Below is a table of all the topics in this episode with links to the full podcasts.

Reflection on 2024:
As we recap the highlights, we celebrate the progress and resilience of the RESNET® community in driving energy efficiency and sustainability. This episode highlights the industry's achievements and innovation, from RESNET®'s ambitious goals and policy wins to groundbreaking tools like the QA app and evolving market trends like Build-to-Rent housing.

Looking Ahead:
2025 promises to bring even more exciting initiatives, broader adoption of RESNET® programs, and a collective journey toward achieving 1 million HERS ratings annually. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with RESNET® through upcoming events like the RESNET® 2025 Conference and continued advocacy efforts.

Call to Action:
If this episode inspired you, revisit the full conversations for deeper insights and ideas. We thank our listeners, guests, and stakeholders for their contributions to an impactful year. Here's to even greater achievements in 2025!

Topic & Episode

Topic

Full Episode link

Part A GOALS & MACRO TRENDS

124

Ambitious goals 2028

www.bit.ly/RT-124

124

Stretch goals

www.bit.ly/RT-124

128

Defining BTR & HERS Ratings

www.bit.ly/RT-128

Part B SOFTWARE & DATA

125

Development of the QA app

www.bit.ly/RT-125

134

Purpose and goals for QA App

www.bit.ly/RT-134

131

Highlights from the Trends report

www.bit.ly/RT-131

132

QA is the backbone

www.bit.ly/RT-132

Part C PEOPLE

126

Perspectives on Women in the HERS industry

www.bit.ly/RT-126

127

Robert's advocacy experience

www.bit.ly/RT-127

127

Carl on how advocacy days are structured

www.bit.ly/RT-127

129

Paulette explains her role in outreach

www.bit.ly/RT-129

133

Evolution of IECC/HERS Compliance Specialist

www.bit.ly/RT-133

130

Preview of the 2025 RESNET Conference

www.bit.ly/RT-130

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us.

Or for more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

HVAC systems usually consume a large chunk of the energy in any home.

So, it follows that optimizing HVAC systems can lead to lower home energy consumption, hence a lower HERS score/better HERS rating.

But how are points awarded for a better-quality HVAC design and Installation?

Is there are better way than nameplate information?

Listen in as we chat with Wes Davis (ACCA) and Dean Gamble (EPA Energy Star Homes Program) as they discuss why the ANSI/RESNET 301 standard is being created and the lessons learned that resulted in development of that standard.

A major goal here is to significantly re-unify the process of doing a HERS rating and earning the ENERGY STAR.

We will discuss the current status of development, as well as the expected implementation timeline.

Heads up: raters may need a few more tools and training in this extension of their work, yet efforts are being made so the standard maximizing flexibility of execution.  You'll also hear about a new, non-invasive system test for HVAC systems.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Lately we hear a lot of buzz words in the home building community:

Sustainable. Healthy. Smart. Flexible.

What would it be like to actually execute on all these parameters?

All at once.

In one home.

Well KB Home did it in the KB Home Projekt!

Listen in to my conversation with Jacob Atalla, VP of Sustainability Initiatives with KB Home as he expands on KB's vision, strategies and execution of these 4 pillars.

From the offsite manufacturing of the panels and floor cassettes, to novel insulation materials, to the Google Assistant integrations of the 250 devices in the home that have unique IP address. KB Home has harnessed the tremendous brain power in collaboration with partners over an 18-month period that launched the Projekt Home at the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, NV in January 2019.

Learn more at www.KBHomeProjekt.com

The KB Home ProjeKt breaks new ground in smart home building through innovative partnerships and cutting-edge technology that helps residents improve their physical and emotional health and well-being, and is designed to flex with the needs of its homeowners. Located in Inspirada, one of the bestselling master plans in the U.S. and a dynamic, connected and growing community, the KB Home ProjeKt is a short distance from the Las Vegas strip and CES, and is a full-scale, immersive home experience of "where tomorrow lives."

All disciplines in the building industry should come to the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: http://conference.resnet.us/

Learn more in person during the 2019 RESNET conference session on the KB Home Projekt.

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

New horizons, new perspectives.

In today's episode our guests Tony Lisanti (Integral Building & Design, Inc.) and Chris McTaggart (The BER) discuss how HERS Raters should consider pursuing the ICC Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner certification.

On a timely note, you can learn more about training and testing for this going on just before the 2019 RESNET conference at this link: http://conference.resnet.us/

We hear about the synergy between code work and work of HERS raters, as well as details on the training content as Chris is an instructor on this topic.

We also discuss the business and career opportunities that await a Rater who has earned this certification.

You can learn more about the energy codes at https://codes.iccsafe.org/search/map

Find out about code adoption in your area on this website: http://energycodesocean.org/code-status/residential/ or the DOE website: https://www.energycodes.gov/

All disciplines in the building industry should come to the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: http://conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

It's the new year where we all set some goals and priorities for ourselves.

RESNET is no different and has set their goals and priorities for 2019.

In this episode Steve Baden, RESNET Executive Director, covers the programs and initiatives that are rolling out in 2019 and beyond.

From increasing consumer awareness and demand for ratings to sustaining and enhancing the quality of ratings RESNET is working hard to continue to be recognized as the Gold Standard for measuring and labeling home performance.

Two new aspects: The HERS Water Rating Index and the HVAC performance installation standard should be launching by the time of the 2019 annual conference.

2018 finished strong with ratings up by 10,000 over 2017, and growing engagement from more diverse and younger participants in the RESNET eco system.

All disciplines in the building industry should come to the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: http://conference.resnet.us/

Take special note that the early bird registration period is over January 24, 2019; so don't miss out on a $100 savings you are sure to put to better use in The Big Easy!

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Tune in to this episode where RESNET Executive Director, Steve Baden and staff member Emma Bennett give you the lay of the land for what should be the best conference of the year; the upcoming Annual RESNET Conference themed Going Forward Together.

From policy to pitot tubes, mega-trends to Mardi Gras; the over 100 conference sessions, 50 exhibitors, plus the local atmosphere of New Orleans will keep you both informed and entertained.

Not to mention the networking opportunities with over 700 colleagues and industry leaders and the new Town Hall forum with RESNET board and staff members.

All disciplines in the building industry should come to the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

Take special note that the early bird registration period is over January 24, 2019; so don't miss out on a $100 savings you are sure to put to better use in The Big Easy!

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

 Time for your annual checkup, RESNET!

So, open wide (your ears) and listen as we join RESNET staff members Laurel Elam, Scott Doyle and Billy Giblin for their insights into what is happening on the quality assurance front.

You will gain a clearer picture of how this experienced and thoughtful team engages on several levels with raters, providers and others to achieve the best possible product: a consistent HERS index rating.

Hear how the annual, online and infield reviews combine to shape the standards, and direct the education and communication aspects at RESNET.

Listen in as we hear of real-world experiences during the new infield QA reviews that are integral to this process.

We also note how RESNET, and especially this team, pays close attention to the business aspects of ratings to ensure that their collective efforts cause a high-quality service to be delivered without creating unnecessary burden.

Pros (and especially Realtors and Appraisers) in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

What's the most effective way to conduct an energy rating on a multifamily building?  

Join us as Gayathri Vijayakumar (Steven Winter Associates, Inc.) discusses the efforts of a dedicated group of individuals that has moved multifamily building energy ratings from guidelines to become a part of the existing HERS standards 301 and 380.

We also learn of Gayathri's passion for her work, her love of solar, and what has driven her career to this point at Steven Winter Associates.

You will gain a clearer picture of how standards are made and most importantly, updated regularly through research and public comment.

Learn about what constitutes a multifamily building and how some of the assessments and tests are performed.

You can learn more about the standards at RESNET's website: http://www.resnet.us/professional/standards

And keep up to date with pending standards amendments here: http://www.resnet.us/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/RESNET-Pending-Standard-Amendments-3-28-18-Completed.pdf

Gayathri offers her email address for you to get in touch, gvijayakumar@swinter.com, and you may also run into her at the RESNET conferences.

Some of the people that devote many hours helping to develop and improve these standards are:

RESNET Multifamily MFWG (2013-2014):

Ted Leopkey (Group Chair), EPA

Ben Adams, MaGrann Associates

James Brauer, U.S. Eco Logic/TexEnergy Solutions,

Brian Christensen, NORESCO,

Krista Egger, Enterprise Community Partners,

Dave Epley, DC DCRA,

Patrick Fitzgerald, NYSERDA,

Asa Foss, U.S. Green Building Council,

Bruce Harley, 

Abe Kruger, SK Collaborative,

Scott Lee, Southface, 

Ted Leopkey, formerly with U.S. EPA,

Ken Owens, Jr. Franklin Energy, 

Matt Root,

Rob Salcido,

Brian Stanfill, MaGrann Associates,

Gayathri Vijayakumar, Steven Winter Associates, 

Meghan Walsh, USDA,

Li Ling Young, VEIC

RESNET MFSC – June 2016 to August 2017

RESNET Multifamily Sub-Committee & Task Group members:

Thiel Butner, Pando Alliance,

Brian Christensen, NORESCO,

Rebecca Hudson (committee ViceChair), EPA,

Asa Foss (USGBC),

Paul Gay (US Eco-Logic),

Bruce Harley,

Matthew Root

Brian Stanfill (MaGrann)

Bob Grindrod (TRC),

Joel Williams,

Troy Maharg (TexEnergy),

Chris Mc Taggart (BER),

Gary Nelson (Energy Conservatory),

Sean Denniston (NBI)

Gayathri Vijayakumar (committee Chair), Steven Winter Associates, 

Pros (and especially Realtors and Appraisers) in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

You may know ventilation fan performance is dependent on several factors, yet some of these factors may surprise you.

In this episode, we speak with Russell Pope, Industry Development Manager for Panasonic and learn the intricacies involved in delivering proper ventilation in a residential setting.

Russell educates us as to the evolution of ventilation fans, including test protocols to insure proper performance of the fan unit itself. We also hear about the differences in the approach to ventilation and filtration outside of the US, as well as what's happening with kitchen ventilation and the impact of produced sound levels on equipment usage.

He also educates us as to the importance of proper installation, venting, vent terminations and testing to insure installed performance. He notes an important study on vent cap (duct end terminations) performance by David Escatel (Texas A&M) which may be found at link: www.bit.ly/VentPerf

Russell shares with us his background and passion for the work he does which includes a lot of education and training. You can reach Russell at Russell.Pope@us.Panasonic.com

Here are some helpful links that Russell wishes to share:

Daniel Escatel Thesis on Duct End Terminations

http://oaktrust.library.tamu.edu/handle/1969.1/ETD-TAMU-2011-05-9399

Duct Friction Loss Calculator

http://www.freecalc.com/ductloss.htm

Home Ventilating Institute Certified Products Directory

https://www.hvi.org/proddirectory/CPD_Reports/section_1/index.cfm

Panasonic Ventilation Products –

https://na.panasonic.com/us/home-and-building-solutions/ventilation-indoor-air-quality/

Pros (and especially Realtors and Appraisers) in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET AT INFO@RESNET.US

When will there be a tipping point in the common use of energy ratings for homes?  

Join us as David Heslam (Earth Advantage) and Ryan Meres (RESNET) discuss how they are teaming up to seamlessly deliver Home Energy Ratings information to the real estate community.

Listen in as David describes his career journey from builder, to green builder, then into education and research in the housing market.

We discuss the inner workings of how the RESNET database interfaces with the National Green Building Registry which can then be pulled into the regional MLS (Multi-List Service), with the click of "one big GREEN button."

Ryan describes how RESNET is making this happen by running a pilot program in Portland, Oregon, David's hometown.

David notes, there is a tremendous opportunity for the real estate community to serve a need: as 71% of consumers value green home attributes, yet only 35% of real estate professionals feel comfortable discussing them.

We cover some of the resources real estate pros can use to become better educated.

You can learn more at David's website www.EarthAdvantage.org or at the registry: www.GreenBuildingRegistry.com

David offers his email address for you to get in touch, DHeslam@EarthAdvantage.org, as he travels coast to coast inspiring many communities who are interested in the work being done in Portland.

You can also look David up on LinkedIn and to find a comprehensive slide deck on how all the bits and pieces of this process work together.

Pros (and especially Realtors and Appraisers) in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET AT INFO@RESNET.US

How can HERS raters influence the development of the IECC? (International Energy Conservation Code)

Join us as Eric Makela of the New Buildings Institute (www.NewBuildings.org) takes us on a journey through the world of energy codes.

Eric is the perfect tour guide, as he has spent the last 30 years training on this topic to practitioners in the building, design and enforcement industries in a variety of venues in over 20 states.  

We learn of the work NBI does and how they're involved in code development. Eric also covers some the states and jurisdictions where more advanced or stretch codes are being implemented.

He also illustrates the steps involved in the code update process and what organizations/groups are involved. We also learn how Zero Net Energy and renewables factor in to all the codes.

We also cover changes that have been put in place for the 2018 code and what he believes are future themes for next code update in 2021.

Pros in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.

– Benjamin Franklin

In this episode of RESTalk, Bill Spohn speaks with three guests to discuss the RESNET® QA app, an innovative tool designed to streamline the quality assurance process for home energy ratings. Bill is joined by Billy Giblin, RESNET®'s quality assurance field specialist, Kelvin Abong and Kiro Bondarev from The Fourth Dimension (4D), RESNET®'s technology partner. Together, they explore the app's journey from ideation to execution, its role in harmonizing quality assurance efforts, and the benefits it brings to users.

Billy provides insight into the app's development, explaining how it shifts the industry from inconsistent spreadsheet-based reviews to a more transparent, data-driven approach. Kelvin discusses 4D's collaborative efforts to design a user-friendly app and highlights future improvements based on user feedback. Kiro offers technical details describing the app's ability to integrate with external QA tools via an API, ensuring flexibility for providers.

The conversation touches on the importance of industry adoption, the app's intuitive design, and its positive impact. The episode includes exciting news about upcoming features, including cloud syncing and expanded integration with Energy Star.

Here is a link to RESTalk EP125, where we first introduced the QA App on this podcast

https://restalk.libsyn.com/ep125-qa-in-your-pocket-how-a-mobile-app-is-empowering-resnet-hers-ratings-with-cassandra-wright-leo-jansen-and-billy-giblin

A press release on the RESNET® QA App, including links to download the app:

https://www.resnet.us/articles/resnet-launches-new-qa-app-for-resnet-rating-providers-and-qads/

More details on the RESNET® QA App:

https://www.resnet.us/about/qa/resnet-qa-app/

To the RESNET® community, we hear you and want to engage. Learn more at www.RESNET.us.

Or for more info on this topic, contact RESNET at INFO@RESNET.US

Just as anyone else, building experts buy homes, too. Yet what are the differences in the way these insiders make their choices in finding the best homes to live in?

Listen in as C.R. Herro, Vice President of Energy Efficiency and Sustainability at Meritage Homes shares with us his very thoughtful perspectives on the gaps that exist between the way buyers and experts make choices about the homes they live in.

We discuss the new parameter of home choice beyond location, price, and design; the parameter of home performance.

CR's unique background of study in philosophy, environmental engineering and business experience sheds fresh light on the complex, and often daunting topic of how home buyers must somehow gain experience in the benefits of a high performing homes before their perception of value shifts such that a want becomes a need.

We discuss the international landscape in home performance to glean insights into what could (should?) happen in the USA as well as how home automation needs to tie in the building performance trends.

Some of the resources mention include the Appraisal Institute's Residential Green and Energy Efficient Addendum (https://www.appraisalinstitute.org/assets/1/7/ResidentialGreenandEnergyEfficientAddendum.pdf) and the Bi-Partisan SAVE Act (Sensible Accounting to Value Energy) https://www.ase.org/resources/sensible-accounting-value-energy-save-act-amendment

Pros in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET AT INFO@RESNET.US

How do you get folks to understand the increased value in high performing, energy efficient homes?  

Sandra Adomatis of Adomatis Appraisal Service is making it her mission to answer that question by helping the US real estate industry appreciate that you need to measure it, market it and sell for it.

Listen in as Sandy, describes her career journey which lead her to the point of being a highly sought-after nationally, called upon speaker earning her the title of the Green Queen.

We discuss the inner workings of the appraisal process and the structure and purposes of the Multi-List Service (MLS)

Sandy freely shares her knowledge and many relevant resources on her website at www.adomatisappraisalservice.com/#

She is the consummate networker and spearheaded the creation of the Appraisal Institute's Residential Green and Energy Efficient Addendum (https://www.appraisalinstitute.org/assets/1/7/ResidentialGreenandEnergyEfficientAddendum.pdf)

One key resources she recommends is the Appraisal Institute's: Appraised Value and Energy Efficiency: Getting it Right (for buyers and lenders) found here: www.appraisalinstitute.org/assets/1/29/AI-BCAP_Flyer.pdf

Pros (and especially Realtors and Appraisers) in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET AT INFO@RESNET.US

Build it Tight. Ventilate Right. We hear a lot about the former, what about the latter?

Listen in as we chat with Scott Grefsheim a Senior Product Engineer at Research Products (AprilAire) as he shares his 25-year passion for building products that improve health and comfort in homes and buildings.

We discuss his complex role as a product engineer to define product specifications to satisfy building occupants, builders, dealers, energy raters as well as codes.

He covers how various types of products and controls perform the basic role of ventilation which is to dilute the indoor pollutants to acceptable levels while maintaining occupant comfort.

Scott shares three key points of advice for Energy Raters:

1) Know the (air) flow that is required in the building you are testing. This can come from the codes or tables or some calculators/programs.

2) Don't overventilate, as that brings on additional energy needs of heating or cooling or dehumidifying or humidifying the ventilation air.

3) Install properly and measure performance; being certain that you are using the appropriate controls

Additional resources are available at www.AprilAirePartners.com where you can use the Contact Us tab for tech support or asking questions.

Pros in the building industry should consider attending the annual conference which will be held in New Orleans, LA Feb 25-27, 2019 more info at: www.conference.resnet.us/

RESTalk: To the RESNET community, we hear you and want to engage.

Pros can learn more at www.RESNET.us/professional

Consumers can learn more at www.RESNET.us

Or for more info on this topic contact RESNET AT INFO@RESNET.US