The 45L Tax Credit and ENERGY STAR Certification

This course gives builders an overview of the ENERGY STAR New Homes Program which is a requirement for a builder to earn the 45L federal tax credit. A builder will understand basic requirements of the program and the building science and rationale behind the requirements. Many pictures will be used most from new homes constructed in the Twin Cities Area showing good and bad installations.

Course Outline

• Introduction
• History of the federal 45L Tax credit and changes coming for homes sold in 2023 and beyond
• EnergyStar Overview and Key Items
• National Program Requirements
• Water Management System Builder Checklist
• National HVAC Design Report
• National HVAC Commissioning Checklist
• National Rater Field Checklist
• Next Steps

Learner Objectives

• The key parties and documents in the EnergyStar program and what their next steps should be
• EnergyStar is not a code requirement and if there is a conflict between requirements and code, code must be followed
• Why proper HVAC design and commissioning is important for energy efficiency, comfort, and durability and why it is required by EnergyStar
• The different insulation grades and why proper installation of insulation is important
• Options for reduced thermal bridging by EnergyStar
• Air-sealing requirements and why air sealing it is important
• Next steps for Zero Energy Ready Certification

Testimonial

"Useful information that will most likely become code soon." Brian Laabs, Brian Laabs Construction

Quiz Info

In order to receive continuing education credit(s), you will need to take a 10-question quiz following the course. To pass the quiz, you will need to achieve a score of 70% or higher. If you are unsuccessful, you will have an opportunity to repeat the quiz. Once you have successfully completed the quiz, you can download your continuing education certificate(s) showing the credit(s) that you have earned.

Credit Info

This course has been approved for one hour of MN residential contractor, remodeler and building official continuing education by the Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry and is approved for the required Energy credit.

If you are eligible to receive continuing education credits, your information will be electronically reported to the appropriate agency within 3 business days of course completion.

Access Info

Your online course is accessible 24/7. The course will be available to you for 180 days from purchase date.

Questions and Comments

Questions and comments related to the curriculum for this course may be submitted to the instructor at education@housingfirstmn.org.