The Duke Energy RNC Program team will be hosting a rater webinar to overview the HVAC Grading process in Ekotrope and answer questions from raters. Please reach out to the RNC Program team for a link to the webinar.
Read MoreHVAC Grading in Ekotrope
The new Standard 310 (Std. 310) provides a method for evaluating the installation quality of HVAC systems. Ekotrope currently has the HVAC grading system in Beta and plans to release the working version in April.
Read MoreCOVID-19 Remote Inspections Extension
Recently RESNET has issued guidance extending the option of using remote inspections due to COVID-19 up to thirty (30) days after the Presidential Proclamation on Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak is lifted. The RNC Program continues to support raters’ decisions to protect themselves as they see fit during this time and will continue to allow for homes with remote inspections to be submitted in the Program. The RNC Program may opt to diverge from RESNET's stated timeline, at it's discretion.
Read MoreEquipment-only applications in Ekotrope
Starting on November 16th, 2020, program participants can submit equipment-only applications directly in Ekotrope. The legacy registration portal (where equipment-only applications were previously submitted) will remain open until November 20th to allow users time to learn the new process. A step-by-step guide for submitting equipment-only applications in Ekotrope can be found on the Program website.
Read MoreRESNET Webcasts and Conference Presentations
RESNET has a Vimeo library of webcasts and conference presentations. Check out the full post for the link to the library and recommended videos.
Read MoreCOVID-19 Remote Inspections Extension through September 2020
In recent days RESNET has issued guidance extending the option of using remote inspections due to COVID-19 through September 30th, 2020. The RNC Program supports raters’ decisions to protect themselves as they see fit during this time and will continue to allow for homes with remote inspections to be submitted in the Program. The RNC Program may opt to diverge from RESNET's stated timeline, at it's discretion.
[**Allowance extended up to thirty (30) days after the Presidential Proclamation on Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak is lifted. See the news article here.]
COVID-19 Remote Inspections
In recent days the HERS rating industry’s oversight organization, RESNET, issued guidance encouraging HERS raters nationwide to alter inspection practices in response to COVID-19. The following testing and inspection guidelines are presented to all Program participants as an option, not a requirement.
[**Allowance extended up to thirty (30) days after the Presidential Proclamation on Declaring a National Emergency Concerning the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak is lifted. See the news article here.]
Builder Participation Agreement Renewal
Builders that have not yet renewed their RNC Program Participation Agreements must do so immediately.
Read MoreTesting Protocol Clarifications
To ensure the RNC Program collects accurate energy usage data, it may require different testing protocols from those found in the IECC Energy Conservation Code or RESNET Standards. Read the full post for more information.
Read MoreBeta Versions of Rating Software
Beta rating software is not permitted for homes in the Duke Energy RNC Program under any circumstances. Read the full post for more information.
Read MoreManometer Calibrations
ICF is now offering field calibrations for manometers. Read the full post for more information.
Read MoreIncentive and quality assurance structure
All new construction projects served by Duke Energy Progress in North and South Carolina are eligible to participate in the Residential New Construction Program. The basic incentive structure and protocols for the RNC Program’s quality assurance are included in this post.
Read MoreSmart thermostats - deemed savings
Smart thermostats eligible for $75 in deemed savings. Read the full post for requirements and timeline.
Read MoreApplications system transition date: 8/1/2019
in Raters
It’s almost time to submit your whole-house incentives through the new Ekotrope-based system. Read the full post for information related to this change.
Read MoreEnergy modeling software changes
in Builders
The Program is streamlining incentive processing by consolidating energy modeling. Please read the full post for a description of the changes and guidance.
Read MoreUpdates to Savings and Incentive Calculation Process
The Program is excited to announce updates to the savings and incentive calculation process that will streamline raters’ tasks and improve the consistency of calculated savings.
Read More2018 HERO Code: Permit dates and REM updates
in Raters
This post provides information regarding the use of permit dates in assigning rebates and the current status of REM/Rate’s implementation of the new code version.
Read MoreREM v15.7.1 now accepted.
in Raters
The program's analysis of savings of REM v15.6.1 (compared to v15.5) found negligible impacts. Moving forward, all REM homes will be processed in v15.6.1.
Read MoreMandatory Insulation Inspections
As a reminder, insulation inspections are required for all homes participating in the Duke RNC Program for a HERO rebate or a HERO + HERS Rebate. Under no circumstances may homes be submitted without both a pre-drywall and final inspection by a participating Rater. This means that scheduling and carrying out inspections with your Rater is critical.
Please see the previous participant email for additional information.
REM v15.6.1 now accepted.
in Raters
The program's analysis of savings of REM v15.6.1 (compared to v15.5) found negligible impacts. Moving forward, all REM homes will be processed in v15.6.1.
Read More