Residential New Construction and Renovation
Build an energy-efficient home with Rhode Island Energy’s support
We help you create homes that offer better comfort, cleaner indoor air, and lower energy costs. Whether you’re building or renovating a single-family or multi-family home, Rhode Island Energy’s Residential New Construction (RNC) program provides financial incentives, no-cost education, training, and technical support.
By partnering with builders and homeowners, we ensure new construction and major renovation projects meet high energy performance standards, leading to reduced operating costs and increased durability and comfort.
How the Residential New Construction program works
A certified Home Energy Rating System (HERS) rater will work with your builder to assess the home’s energy efficiency design and provide on-site verification throughout the construction process. Energy modeling is used to confirm compliance with the RNC requirements, offering flexibility in how you meet these standards.
Programs for building energy-efficient homes
Higher incentives are available for homes that achieve greater energy efficiency, with additional rewards for certifications such as ENERGY STAR, the Department of Energy's (DOE's) Zero Energy Ready Home, Phius, and homes that meet the current Rhode Island Residential Stretch Code.
ENERGY STAR®
ENERGY STAR® certified homes are designed to be at least 20% more energy efficient than standard homes. They feature enhanced insulation, air sealing, high-performance windows, and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems to lower energy costs and increase comfort.
Discover benefits of ENERGY STAR-certified homesZero Energy Ready Home program
The DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home program ensures homes are so energy efficient that renewable energy could offset most or all of their annual energy use. These homes meet rigorous performance standards, offering lower energy bills and improved indoor air quality.
Explore Zero Energy Ready Home programPhius certification
Phius certifies building projects, product data, and professionals to promote the widespread adoption of passive and net-zero construction. This certification ensures that buildings, the products used, and the experts involved meet high standards for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Get your project Phius certifiedRhode Island Residential Stretch Code
The Rhode Island Residential Stretch Code sets energy efficiency standards that go beyond the base state code, ensuring homes have lower long-term energy costs and a reduced environmental footprint.
Learn about the RI Residential Stretch CodeGet started
Call 1-888-887-8841, or download our program description.