Energy Trust's New Homes Program offers builders cash incentives for energy efficient measures included in new homes where the measures exceed the building code minimum requirements. Lighting upgrades, whole home performance upgrades, higher levels of insulation, high-efficiency equipment, better windows, air sealing and solar systems are eligible for incentives under this offering. The more energy-efficient a home is above code, the more incentives a builder can qualify for. See the program overview for a sample of some of the incentives available.

Most incentives are based on a home's Energy Performance Score (EPS), a measurement tool that assesses a home's energy consumption, estimated utility costs and carbon impact. The EPS allows builders to clearly demonstrate how efficient the home is beyond code and helps homebuyers compare homes based on energy costs and efficiency. The EPS can work with any certification, such as ENERGY STAR, Earth Advantage, LEED and Oregon High Performance Homes.

It is recommended that builders contact Energy Trust during the design stage.  In order to receive an EPS and an incentive, the home must be inspected by a third party verifier before drywall is installed.  If the building plans are set or construction has just begun, Energy Trust will provide free project modeling using the home plans.

To be eligible for these incentives, the home must be located within the service territory of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas or Avista.