Homes

The U.S. Department of Energy funds R&D to develop energy efficient and renewable energy technologies, practices, and products for homes. Learn about DOE programs and initiatives to improve energy use in homes, how to use efficient and renewable energy technologies and get financial incentives, and access information to save energy and money at home.

Photo of residential home with roof covered in solar panels

Homeowners and builders use energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies to save money and energy in homes.

Programs and Initiatives

Building Technologies Program
Funds research and technology to reduce residential energy use.

Better Buildings Neighborhood Program partners with states, local governments, and organizations who received funding to ramp-up energy efficiency building upgrades in their communities.

Building America residential research works to improve the quality and energy efficiency of homes. The goal is to reduce average housing energy use by 40% to 100%.

DOE Challenge Home provides marketing and technical support to builders of energy-efficient homes and provides information for homebuyers looking for builders that have committed to DOE's Challenge Home criteria.

Home Energy Score allows homeowners to collect home energy information and compare the energy performance of their homes to other homes in the area. It also provides recommended energy improvements.

Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® provides homeowners with the resources to connect with ENERGY STAR®-approved contractors who can offer high-quality home energy assessments.

Building Energy Codes Program provides information on national model energy codes for homes, promotes stronger building energy codes, and helps states adopt, implement, and enforce those codes.

U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon challenges collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and attractive.

Weatherization Assistance Program enables low-income families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient.

Appliance and Commercial Equipment Standards develops test procedures and minimum efficiency standards for residential appliances.