Understanding Minnesota’s Green Path Certification Levels
When it comes to building energy-efficient homes, Minnesota’s Green Path is at the forefront, offering homeowners and builders a clear, trusted roadmap. The Green Path certification program is designed to ensure that homes not only meet but exceed modern energy efficiency standards. The program offers three distinct levels of certification: Energy-Tested, Advanced, and Master. While all levels represent a commitment to energy efficiency, Advanced and Master certifications take sustainable building to new heights, delivering unparalleled performance and value.
“The Green Path certification provides us with a clear, third-party endorsement of our commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability,” shared Mya Jacobs with Eternity Homes. “It has influenced our approach by making us more intentional about the materials and methods we use.”
“If you are already building a quality house with the right materials, [Green Path certification] is a natural transition and one that will only raise the pride of your people and customers,” said Jake Lee, vice president of Stonegate Builders.
This intentionality is at the heart of what sets Advanced and Master certifications apart, with builders that make use of the certifications prioritizing long-term savings and environmental responsibility.
The Core of the Green Path Certification Program
Minnesota’s Green Path starts with the Energy-Tested Certification, which ensures homes meet fundamental energy efficiency standards set by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). Energy-tested homes receive a Home Performance Report (HPR) and the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index Score. This level of certification is a solid first step, providing homeowners with assurance that their new home is designed to reduce energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills and a more comfortable living environment.
Going Beyond: Advanced and Master Certifications
Advanced Certification is where homes truly start to differentiate themselves in the realm of energy efficiency. To achieve this level, homes must incorporate things like enhanced insulation, high-efficiency HVAC systems, or superior windows and doors, among other features. This results in a lower HERS Index score, reflecting significant energy savings. The Advanced Certification is ideal for builders and homeowners committed to exceeding the norm and investing in long-term efficiency and sustainability.
“There is a lot of opportunities for residential homebuilding to increase energy efficiency for not only our homeowners but for our communities and our planet,” said Scott Hockert of Hanson Builders.
Master Certification represents the pinnacle of energy-efficient homebuilding. Homes that achieve this level are designed with cutting-edge technologies and practices that push the boundaries of what’s possible in residential construction. This might include integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels, using state-of-the-art smart home systems, and employing the most advanced building materials available. A home with Master Certification doesn’t just meet energy efficiency standards; it sets new ones.
Why Choose Advanced or Master Certification?
For homebuilders, pursuing Advanced or Master Certification through Minnesota’s Green Path offers a strategic advantage in a competitive market. These certifications differentiate your homes by demonstrating a commitment to superior energy efficiency and sustainability, qualities increasingly valued by homebuyers.
As Hocket shares, “The great thing is that we were able to get this certification and recognition for things we were already doing in our homes and developments without changing our current process.”
Associating with Minnesota’s Green Path not only enhances your reputation as a forward-thinking builder but also provides a powerful marketing tool.
Lee echoes this sentiment. “We wanted our clients to have the option to easily integrate the Green Path components into their home if they desired it,” he said. “We have been a Green Path builder since the start and were already doing many of the requirements, so the certification step was an easy one to take.”
Jacobs advises other builders to see Green Path certification as an investment in both the future of their business and the well-being of their customers.
“This certification helps us effectively communicate the long-term value and benefits of green building, making the conversation about sustainability not just theoretical, but measurable and impactful for everyday living,” she shared.
By achieving these higher certification levels, you’re not just building homes; you’re building a brand that resonates with today’s eco-conscious buyers. The Green Path certification serves as an endorsement of quality, helping you to build trust and credibility with your customers.
Explore more about our certification levels and how they can benefit your business at mngreenpath.org/greenbuilders.
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Minnesota’s Green Path certification program is about more than just meeting standards — it’s about setting them. Our Advanced and Master certifications represent a commitment to excellence in homebuilding, delivering homes that are not only energy-efficient but also comfortable, sustainable, and future-proof. As a part of Xcel Energy’s commitment to green building, it has teamed up with Minnesota’s Green Path to recognize new homes that go above and beyond in energy efficiency. Xcel Energy covers the $79 Advanced and Master Certification application fees for builders that build in their territory.
