Energy Budget
A planned allocation of energy consumption across building systems (heating, cooling, lighting, appliances, hot water) designed to meet a specific performance target like net zero or ENERGY STAR.
Why It Matters
Setting an energy budget before designing or renovating prevents oversizing expensive equipment. It is the foundation of high-performance building design.
Related Terms
Energy Model
A computer simulation of a building that predicts energy consumption based on climate data, insulation levels, HVAC equipment, occupancy patterns, and appliance usage. Tools like EnergyPlus and BEopt are used by auditors.
Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH)
A DOE certification for homes so energy-efficient that a standard solar system can offset all or nearly all annual energy consumption. Requires high-performance envelope, HVAC, lighting, and appliances.
HERS Index (Home Energy Rating System)
A scoring system from 0-150+ that rates a home's energy efficiency. A HERS Index of 100 equals the reference home; lower scores are more efficient. A net-zero home scores 0.