How to qualify for Energy Star Rating
In order to qualify for an Energy Star rating, building materials have to pass certain specifications set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The specifications are based on the following set of key guiding principles (per www.energystar.gov/products/how-product-earns-energy-star-label) :
- Product categories must contribute significant energy savings nationwide.
- Certified products must deliver the features and performance demanded by consumers, in addition to increased energy efficiency.
- If the certified product costs more than a conventional, less-efficient counterpart, purchasers will recover their investment in increased energy efficiency through utility bill savings, within a reasonable period of time.
- Energy efficiency can be achieved through broadly available, non-proprietary technologies offered by more than one manufacturer.
- Product energy consumption and performance can be measured and verified with testing.
- Labeling would effectively differentiate products and be visible for purchasers.
Solar reflectiveness affects energy
Solar reflectance is the most important characteristic for roofing materials when it comes to measuring energy savings during warmer months (source: www.epa.gov/heatisland/mitigation/coolroofs.htm ). The more reflective the roofing materials, the more light and heat are redirected, and this redirection lowers the roof temperature. For the individual building owner, an Energy Star roof could reduce the cooling demand by 10-15 percent (http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=roof_prods.pr_roof_faqs).