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

TECHNICAL BULLETIN: MARCH NATURAL GAS AND ELECTRIC RATES

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

TECHNICAL BULLETIN: GENERAL INSULATION OVERVIEW

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

TECHNICAL BULLETIN: MECHANICAL VENTILATION STRATEGIES

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

ENERGY STAR® SCHOLARSHIP FOR RESIDENTIAL HERS RATERS

Consumers Energy partnered with Environmental Protection Agency-recognized third-party training organizations to launch a one-year ENERGY STAR® Scholarship Pilot Program. To grow our highly-skilled trades network, Consumers Energy will provide 2022 ENERGY STAR scholarships, valued at$500 each, to 5 RESNET® certified raters.

ENERGY STAR® SCHOLARSHIP FOR RESIDENTIALHVAC CONTRACTORS &  HERS RATERS

Consumers Energy partnered with Environmental Protection Agency-recognized third-party training organizations to launch a one-year ENERGY STAR® Scholarship Pilot Program. To grow our highly-skilled trades network, Consumers Energy will provide 2022 ENERGY STAR scholarships, valued at $1,050 each, to 15 HVAC contractors and 5 RESNET® certified raters who sign up. We encourage you to spread awareness of this offering to your trades.