If you’ve ever heard the term “HERS rating” and weren’t totally sure what it meant, you’re not alone. But behind that acronym is one of the most important tools in modern home energy performance and it’s something EDGE Energy has been connected to for over 20 years.
The latest 2025 RESNET Annual Report gives a clear picture of just how big this industry has become and why it matters for homeowners.
First, What Is a HERS Rating?
HERS stands for Home Energy Rating System. Think of it like a miles-per-gallon rating for your house.
- A lower score = more efficient home
- A typical existing home might score around 80 to 100+
- New high-performance homes are often in the 50s or lower
According to RESNET’s 2025 data, the average HERS score for rated homes is now 53, which is a strong indicator that newer homes are becoming significantly more efficient.
The Scale of What’s Happening Nationwide
This isn’t a niche program anymore. It’s massive.
- 420,135 homes were rated in 2025 alone
- That represents 34% of all new one- and two-family homes built
- Over 420,000+ HERS Carbon Index ratings were completed
What that means in plain terms: energy efficiency is becoming standard, not optional.
Real Impact: Energy Savings and Carbon Reduction
These ratings aren’t just paperwork. They translate directly into real-world results.
From the 2025 report:
- $452.9 million in energy cost savings
- 1.4 million tons of carbon emissions avoided
- Equivalent to removing 298,000 cars off the road for a year
That’s not theoretical. That’s money saved by homeowners and measurable environmental impact.
Water Efficiency Is Growing Too
Another area gaining traction is water efficiency through HERSH2O ratings:
- 444 million gallons of water saved annually
- 7,600 homes rated for water performance
- $2.3 million in water cost savings
Efficiency is no longer just about energy. It’s about total home performance.
Why This Matters to EDGE Energy
This is where it ties directly back to us.
The HERS rating was the very first energy credential our CEO/Owner earned, and EDGE Energy has maintained deep involvement with RESNET ever since.
For over 20 years, we’ve:
- Maintained RESNET providership
- Worked closely with builders, real estate agents, and lenders
- Stayed connected to the standards and software that define building performance
Today, this work represents less than 1% of our revenue, and most customers never even see it. But it’s still a core part of who we are.
Why? Because it reflects:
- A commitment to building science, not guesswork
- A focus on data-driven results
- Ongoing alignment with ENERGY STAR programs and national standards
- Investment in advanced tools, certifications, and industry leadership
The Bottom Line
What RESNET’s 2025 report makes clear is simple:
Energy efficiency is no longer a niche upgrade. It’s becoming the baseline.
And while most homeowners interact with things like insulation, HVAC, or solar, the foundation behind all of it is the same system EDGE has been working within for decades.
Quietly, consistently, and backed by real data.
