The greatest value of a picture is when it forces us to notice what we never expected to see. John Tukey

In this episode of RESTalk, host Bill Spohn welcomes his most frequent guest, RESNET staff member, Ryan Meres, to discuss the latest trends in the 2024 edition of the HERS-rated homes. This report, created as an initiative of the RESNET Suppliers Advisory Board, highlights data trends and analysis in the residential construction market. The report shows a consistent year-over-year increase in HERS ratings, with the total number last year reaching 362,000, and projections for this year indicating that the number may surpass 400,000. Notably, states like Massachusetts and Arizona have seen significant adoption rates of HERS ratings in new homes, with Massachusetts leading at 98%.

The conversation delves into various aspects of the report, such as the geographic distribution of HERS ratings, the types of ventilation systems used in homes, and the rise of all-electric homes. Meres notes that certain states, like Texas, have seen substantial increases in the percentage of homes receiving HERS ratings. The report also explores energy cost savings, insulation values, and air leakage rates, highlighting that homes with solar panels tend to have better insulation compared to those without. Additionally, the trend towards high-efficiency mechanical equipment and the decreasing use of gas heating and water heating systems is discussed, reflecting a gradual shift towards more energy-efficient building practices.

Finally, the podcast touches on the growing importance of the HERSH2O rating system, which measures water efficiency in homes. Ryan explains that the program has been expanding, particularly in the Southwest, and is beginning to gain traction in other regions as well. The report indicates that HERSH2O rated homes can save significant amounts of water annually. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the value of the data provided in the report, emphasizing its role in helping builders and decision-makers understand and implement best practices for achieving energy and water efficiency in residential construction.

Link to the report: https://www.resnet.us/wp-content/uploads/RESNET_2024_HERSTrendsDataReport_FINAL.pdf Ryan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-meres-58977110/

RESTalk: 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

Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.

Steve Jobs

Bill Spohn welcomes RESNET staff member Clara Hedrick to discuss the upcoming RESNET 2025 conference. Clara, the lead events coordinator for RESNET, shares her excitement about the event and details her responsibilities. The conference is scheduled for January 27-30, 2025, in Tempe, Arizona, a location praised for its accessibility, nightlife, and natural beauty. Clara highlights the venue, Tempe Mission Palms, chosen for its amenities and feedback from previous events. With a goal of 500 attendees, Clara anticipates a sellout crowd and emphasizes the importance of early registration. She stresses that early registration is crucial to secure accommodation and participation, as the event is expected to be in high demand.

The conference theme celebrates 30 years of RESNET and 4 million homes rated. Clara outlines the general schedule, starting with an opening reception sponsored by NAIMA on January 26. The following days will feature general sessions, panel discussions, and breakout sessions focusing on various themes, including building science, energy codes, and EPA programs. New session tracks like RESNET 101 and separate business and workforce development sessions aim to provide comprehensive insights for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Special events, such as offsite tours and training sessions, will take place later in the week, providing educational and networking opportunities.

Clara also discusses the exhibit hall, which will be adjacent to the general session room, offering booth spaces and tabletops for exhibitors. The conference aims to balance formal sessions with ample networking time, ensuring attendees can connect with peers and industry leaders. This is a unique opportunity to forge new connections and strengthen existing ones. Clara encourages listeners to stay informed through the RESNET mailing list and highlights the importance of feedback in shaping future events. The episode concludes with Clara expressing her passion for the event and her commitment to making it a success, thanking the RESNET community for their continued support and engagement.

Link to the conference RSVP form: https://www.resnet.us/2025-resnet-conference-rsvp/

Contact the conference team at: conference@resnet.us

RESNET Newsletter sign up (the KEY to so much info): https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1878040/1889360/

RESTalk: 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

"In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we are taught." — Baba Dioum

In the latest episode of RESTalk podcast, Bill Spohn hosts Paulette McGhie and Ryan Meres to discuss RESNET®'s innovative approaches to water, carbon, and building codes. Paulette McGhie, who recently joined RESNET, shares her extensive background in energy compliance and her passion for energy transparency, driven by a personal experience involving her mother's high utility bills. She now focuses on outreach, education, and advocacy, aiming to promote net-zero energy homes by 2040.

The discussion highlights RESNET®'s recent activities, including a significant meeting with Utah's water conservation board to address water reduction goals. Paulette emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among key stakeholders to create incentives and recognition programs for builders adopting water-efficient practices. Ryan Meres discusses RESNET®'s recent policy forum in Washington, D.C., where they advocated for a federal tax credit for water efficiency, similar to the existing 45L tax credit for energy-efficient homes.

The podcast also covers the challenges in promoting water efficiency and adopting advanced building codes. Paulette and Ryan acknowledge the difficulties builders face, particularly in regions with strict outdoor water use regulations. They stress the need for continuous education and advocacy to overcome these obstacles. Both guests are optimistic about increasing builder participation in RESNET® programs and establishing a robust energy code compliance program, aiming for significant progress in the next year.

Paueltte’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulette-mcghie-b4675516/

Ryan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-meres-58977110/

RESTalk: 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