HERO Program Info-Information obtained from:

http://dnr.louisiana.gov/sec/execdiv/techasmt/programs/residential/hero/index.htm

Participants in the HERO Program cannot participate in any other portions of DNR/TAD Programs.

The Louisiana Home Energy Rebate Option (HERO) offers an actual cash rebate payment to Louisiana residents who make an energy efficiency improvement of 30% or more to existing homes. HERO is a component of the Home Energy Loan Program of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). To participate in the HERO program, you must be a resident of the state of Louisiana, and the existing home must also be in the state of Louisiana.  Only single family or duplex properties are eligible for participation in the HERO program.  Sorry, no mobile homes, apartments, or multi-unit properties larger than a duplex are eligible!

The first step to participate in the HERO program is to contact one of the HERO energy raters located in your area.  The HERO energy rater will then set up an appointment to do a preliminary rating on your home.  This initial rating is your application for participation in the HERO program. A list of HERO energy raters can be found by clicking on the title "Certified Home Energy Raters" found at the bottom of this page. Information and step-by-step instructions are also available at the bottom of this page by clicking on "Instructions and Eligibility".

Eligibility Requirements for Cash Payment

Existing Homes - For an existing home to qualify for HERO, it must have its level of energy efficiency improved by at least 30 percent. The preliminary rating for each existing home wanting to participate in HERO must be made before any improvements are made to the home.

How the HERO Rebate Is Determined

For an existing home, the HERO rebate is determined by taking 20% of the lesser of the cost of the energy efficient items/improvements or the present value of the energy saved by the energy efficient items/improvements made to the home over their useful lives.

Home Energy Ratings

A home energy rating allows one to compare the energy efficiency of their home to other homes, estimate future energy bills, and evaluate improvements that will save money. It is a standard measure of home energy efficiency. According to national standards, the energy efficiency of a home is measured on a 500-point index. Homes rated at 100 points are deemed to meet the requirements of the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Homes rated at 0 points, are "net zero", or generate as much energy as they consume annually. To qualify for HERO, the home must be 30 percent more efficient than the base house as tested, or must rate 30 points less than the original house (prior to improvements) on the rating scale.

In Louisiana, the Home Energy Rating system is administered by the Technology Assessment Division of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR/TAD). All ratings are performed by private sector Energy Raters. These experts are trained and certified to submit the required documentation to DNR/TAD for participation in the HERO Program. Included in a rating is a detailed computer analysis and on-site inspection of the home. The on-site inspection includes testing the home for air infiltration and duct leakage using an instrument called a blower door. As of October 1, 2006, Energy raters also utilize a Duct Blaster to comply with current 2006 RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network) Standards.

For individuals purchasing an existing home, a Home Energy Rating can also be used to qualify the home for an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM). With an EEM, homebuyers may be able to borrow additional funds to make energy improvements at the time of purchase. These additional funds are then included in their mortgage. The reduction in energy costs from the funded improvements is generally larger than the increase in mortgage payment. This means an average utility cost savings of approximately $300 to $600 annually for the homeowners.

A list of Home Energy Raters can be obtained by clicking on Certified Home Energy Raters located at the bottom of this page. A rating generally costs between $400 and $600, depending on the size, complexity of the home, and distance to travel to perform the rating. The Rater you select will be able to assess the cost and time issues for your particular project.

To be eligible for any rating or home rebate, the home must first meet the qualifying criteria listed under the Eligibility Requirements for Cash Payment section above.

Other Information

· Instructions and Eligibility

· Certified Home Energy Raters