New Home Construction

Construction of a building

Build Energy-Efficient Homes. Earn Incentives. Deliver More Value.

When you design for energy efficiency from day one, you build homes that are easier to keep cool in summer and easier to heat in winter. You also build homes that are more comfortable, inviting, and enjoyable for the families that will call them home.

As a Builder you can earn incentives based on energy performance, fuel type, and energy savings above code. Higher performance results in greater incentives.

Incentive Pathways

With our New Home Construction program, you can choose from two participation pathways:

  • RESNET® Home Energy Rating System® (HERS®)
    • Rebates are available for homes that achieve a HERS Score of 59 or lower.
    • For more information about a HERS Rating, please visit the HERS Index website.
  • ENERGY STAR® Certification
    • Earn up to $4,000 in rebates when you build a home to ENERGY STAR standards.
    • For more information about this certification, please visit the ENERGY STAR website.

See the Consumers Energy Incentive Chart for rebate details.

For additional program information or assistance with enrollment, please contact the Account Manager listed on this page.

How The Program Works

  • Connect with a certified HERS Rater during the design phase who will:
    • Provide energy modeling and design support.
    • Complete pre-drywall inspection.
    • Complete a final inspection including blower door and duct testing.
  • Your Rater will submit a final rating and rebate application on your behalf.
  • Eligibility requirements
    • Project must be located in a Consumers Energy service territory.
    • Applies to single-family homes, modular homes, duplexes, condos, and select townhomes.

 

How to Get Started

 

Benefits for Builders
  • Financial incentives: Help offset construction costs.

  • Differentiate your homes: Stand out from your competitors in the market with a HERS Rating or ENERGY STAR Certification.

  • Reduce warranty callbacks: Homes that qualify for the program are less likely to underperform and more likely to provide increased homeowner comfort and satisfaction.

  • Receive technical guidance: A certified RESNET HERS Rater is an energy expert and can help guide you toward maximizing incentives, bringing value to your bottom line and to your homeowners.

  • Improved reputation: Your reputation with home buyers can benefit from measurable performance and product consistency when homes are rated.

  • Access to marketing and training support: The program offers marketing resources and additional training and education through the Energy Efficiency Learning Center (EELC).

Benefits for Homeowners
  • Lower energy costs: Qualifying HERS Rated or ENERGY STAR Certified homes can help homeowners save on annual energy bills.

  • Increased home value: Certified homes often command higher resale prices compared to non-certified homes.

  • Healthier indoor air: Enhanced construction standards support improved indoor air quality.

  • Greater comfort: Better temperature consistency and overall home performance lead to a more comfortable living environment.

  • Environmental impact: Contributes to protecting Michigan’s environment by supporting long-term clean energy goals.

 

Program Updates

Promote Healthier, More Efficient Homes with ERVs

Today’s homebuyers are prioritizing comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency. Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) help you deliver on all three— bringing in fresh, filtered air while reducing energy use and improving overall home performance.

Use the attached flyer to educate your clients and showcase the value of ERVs in new, high-efficiency homes. It’s a simple way to differentiate your business and meet evolving customer expectations

Technical Bulletin: How to Read New Home Construction Builder Reports

A new bulletin has been added to the Consumers Energy and DTE Energy Energy Efficiency Learning Center (EELC).

2026 New Home Construction Program Kickoff Meeting Presentation

Dear Participating Builders and HERS Raters, Thank you for joining DTE Energy and Consumers Energy for the 2026 New Home Construction Program kickoff meeting. If you weren't able to attend or would like to revisit the content, you can download the presentation below:

Technical Bulletin: February Natural Gas and Electric Rates (For Builders and HERS® Raters)

A new bulletin has been added to the Consumers Energy and DTE Energy Energy Efficiency Learning Center (EELC).

2025-2026 New Home Construction Program Updates

Thank you for your continued partnership in building energy-efficient homes. Please submit any remaining 2025 applications by January 30, 2026, but applications received after mid-December may experience rebate delays.