In 2015, builder and verifier incentives will continue to be based on a sliding scale of new home energy-efficiency markers. Energy Trust New Homes trade ally verifiers determine where a home falls on the incentive scale using REM/Rate™ modeling software. Builder incentives begin at $600 for homes that reach approximately 10 percent efficiency improvement over the 2011 Oregon Residential Specialty Code. When a home reaches a 40 percent improvement over code, a builder can qualify for as much as $5,000 in cash incentives. Verifier incentives will continue to equal 25 percent of the builder incentive on a project, with a minimum of $300 and a maximum of $1,250.

Incentives to continue in 2015 include:

• $500 for an Early Design Assistance meeting—By compiling a team to discuss goals and integrative design of a project prior to breaking ground, builders can achieve better EPS™ ratings and more incentives. In collaboration with the builder and the verifier, the trade ally coordinator outlines and facilitates the meeting. One New Homes team member is required to attend. The verifier, builder, superintendent, designer, framer, HVAC specialist, insulator, electrician and customer are also encouraged to attend.
• Up to $400 for training—Energy Trust will help offset the cost of continuing education needed to maintain or exceed required program certifications. The maximum allowable incentive per year is $400 per trade ally technician and $1,200 per organization. Contact the trade ally coordinator prior to attending any training to ensure it will be approved for an incentive.
• Up to $1,200 in equipment incentives—Verifiers are eligible for up to $1,200 per year to offset the cost of purchasing diagnostic equipment required to verify EPS homes. Additionally, an arrangement with Energy Conservatory continues to allow trade allies a 12.5 percent discount on all equipment purchases.