Minnesota builders are once again setting the bar for energy efficiency.
New data from the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) shows that Minnesota ranked among the states with the lowest average Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index scores in 2025, among those testing more than 4,000 homes. In total, 8,513 Minnesota homes were energy tested last year, with an average HERS score of 46—an improvement from 2024. The lower the HERS score, the more energy-efficient the home.
A HERS score of 46 isn’t just a number, it’s a meaningful advantage in today’s market.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a typical resale home scores around 130 on the HERS Index, while a standard new home comes in at 100. That means the average Minnesota energy-tested home is:
- 65% more energy efficient than the typical existing home
- 54% more efficient than a standard reference home
For builders and sales teams, that’s a compelling value proposition, especially as buyers become more focused on monthly costs, long-term savings, and overall home performance.
A big driver behind these results is Minnesota’s Green Path, the leading green building and energy testing program created by Housing First Minnesota.
Since its launch, Green Path has provided third-party Home Performance Reports (HPRs) and HERS scores for more than 53,000 homes across the state. These reports give buyers transparent, verified data about a home’s energy performance—something that continues to grow in importance during the sales process.
The continued improvement in Minnesota’s HERS scores reflects more than just strong building practices—it signals a shift in what today’s buyers expect.
Energy efficiency is no longer a “nice to have.” It’s increasingly a differentiator in a competitive market.
Programs like Green Path not only help builders meet that demand, but also provide a clear framework for communicating value. With certification levels ranging from Energy Tested to Advanced Certified and Master Certified, builders have tools to showcase performance across key areas like energy efficiency, indoor air quality, water management, and responsible construction practices.
