Massachusetts consistently ranks as one of the most energy-efficient states in the country, thanks to strong state programs, a deregulated electricity market, and a growing focus on renewable energy. Homeowners across the state are now empowered to choose from a range of electricity suppliers and pricing models that align with their budget, environmental values, and long-term goals for home efficiency. Choosing the right energy plan isn’t just about finding the lowest rate—it’s about securing long-term savings, stability, and sustainability. Whether you’re planning upgrades, lowering monthly bills, or considering energy-efficient renovations, the right plan is the foundation. At HERS Rating Company, we help homeowners across Massachusetts improve energy performance through certified HERS ratings and smart planning. Below is a curated list of the top five energy plans that offer great value, reliability, and long-term benefits. National Grid Basic Service Plan For many homeowners, staying with the default utility provider seems like the simplest choice—and in some cases, it is. The National Grid Basic Service Plan is the standard supply option for residents who have not selected a third-party electricity supplier. This plan features: Though not always the cheapest option, the Basic Service Plan offers simplicity and peace of mind. It’s a suitable choice for homeowners who prefer to avoid shopping around or committing to long-term contracts. This plan also serves as a benchmark when comparing other third-party offers. Green Energy Consumers Alliance 100% Local Green Plan For homeowners who prioritize environmental responsibility, the Green Energy Consumers Alliance offers an exceptional solution. This non-profit organization provides access to 100% renewable electricity sourced from New England-based wind and solar projects. Key features include: This plan is ideal for homeowners looking to make a measurable contribution to reducing carbon emissions. The organization allows you to keep your current utility (National Grid or Eversource), while purchasing clean electricity through their aggregation program. Even if the cost per kilowatt-hour is slightly higher than conventional suppliers, the long-term environmental benefits and community impact can be worth the investment. Constellation Energy Fixed Rate Plan Constellation, a trusted national energy supplier, offers one of the most stable and budget-friendly plans available in Massachusetts. Their 12-month fixed rate plan is designed for homeowners who prefer predictability in monthly utility costs. What it offers: This plan is especially suitable for households with consistent energy usage. Fixed pricing allows for better budgeting and financial planning, helping families avoid spikes during high-demand seasons like summer and winter. Constellation has a long-standing reputation for reliable customer service and transparent pricing. Direct Energy Renewable 18-Month Plan For homeowners seeking a blend of affordability and sustainability, Direct Energy’s 100% Renewable Plan stands out. With an 18-month term, this plan provides long-term rate stability while exclusively using renewable electricity sources. Benefits include: Unlike shorter contracts, the 18-month term helps protect against rising energy costs in a volatile market. This plan is ideal for environmentally minded homeowners who still want cost control and rate security. Mass Save® Home Energy Plan While not a traditional electricity supply plan, the Mass Save® program is essential for any Massachusetts homeowner looking to optimize home energy use and reduce costs. Sponsored by utility companies like Eversource and National Grid, this statewide initiative helps residents make their homes more energy efficient—regardless of their energy provider. Program highlights: Mass Save® is not an electricity plan itself, but pairing this program with a smart energy supplier choice can significantly increase overall energy savings. HERS Rating Company regularly works with homeowners to maximize Mass Save® benefits and complete HERS testing needed to qualify for certain rebates. Learn More: How HERS Ratings Affect Home Resale Value in Massachusetts Comparing Plans Based on Home Goals Every homeowner has different needs. Your ideal energy plan depends on what matters most to you—affordability, sustainability, rate stability, or home upgrade opportunities. Here’s a quick guide based on common homeowner priorities: Goal Best Option Lowering Monthly Bills Constellation Fixed Rate Plan Supporting Clean Energy Green Energy Consumers Alliance or Direct Energy Avoiding Contracts National Grid Basic Service Home Efficiency Upgrades Mass Save® Plan Long-Term Rate Stability Direct Energy 18-Month Plan Benefits of Combining Energy Plans With Home Efficiency Services Choosing the right energy plan is just the first step. To truly maximize savings and comfort, it’s important to pair your plan with energy-efficient improvements. That’s where HERS Rating Company comes in. We help Massachusetts homeowners: By evaluating your home’s performance, we can recommend energy plans that match your efficiency goals and ensure that your investments in insulation, solar panels, or efficient HVAC systems are well-aligned with your supply costs. Energy Market Trends in Massachusetts Massachusetts continues to expand its commitment to clean and renewable energy. With aggressive climate goals and legislation mandating increased reliance on renewable resources, energy plans in the state are shifting: Being aware of these trends helps homeowners make better long-term energy decisions. Learn More: What Triggers a HERS Rating in Massachusetts Final Thoughts Massachusetts offers one of the most dynamic and opportunity-rich energy markets in the country. From fixed-rate plans to green power programs, homeowners have multiple ways to cut costs and reduce environmental impact. But the real advantage comes when you combine a smart energy plan with energy-efficient upgrades—this is where savings and sustainability truly come together. At HERS Rating Company, we help homeowners evaluate, plan, and optimize home energy systems. Whether you’re selecting a new electricity supplier or taking advantage of Mass Save®, our team is here to guide you through every step. Get in touch with HERS Rating Company today to schedule a home energy assessment or learn more about optimizing your home’s performance and choosing the best energy plan for your needs.

In the Massachusetts housing market, energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword – it’s a measurable factor that directly influences property value. With rising energy costs and increasing buyer awareness of environmental issues, a home’s energy performance has become a significant selling point. One of the clearest ways to communicate a home’s energy efficiency is through its Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score. As specialists in energy ratings, HERS Rating Company has seen first-hand how these scores affect resale value, market competitiveness, and buyer decisions. This article explains the full picture of HERS ratings and their impact on resale value for homeowners, builders, and real estate professionals in Massachusetts. Exploring the HERS Rating System The HERS Index is a nationally recognised scoring method developed by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). It measures a home’s energy efficiency and assigns it a score relative to a standard new home. The rating is calculated through an in-depth assessment by certified HERS raters, who inspect insulation levels, HVAC systems, windows, air leakage, ductwork, and other energy-related factors to determine the score. Buyer Perceptions of Energy Efficiency in Massachusetts Massachusetts consistently ranks among the most energy-efficient states in the US. This is driven by: Because of these initiatives, homebuyers in Massachusetts are generally well-informed about energy performance. Many specifically request the HERS score when viewing a property. For these buyers, a low HERS score is not just a number – it represents: All of these factors create a positive perception that translates into higher resale value and quicker sales. The Relationship Between HERS Scores and Resale Value Increased Market Valuation Through Energy Ratings Several studies have established a clear correlation between energy efficiency certifications and home prices. For example: Buyers view homes with strong energy performance as worth the extra investment, especially in areas where heating and cooling costs are substantial. Faster Sales for Energy-Efficient Properties Homes with a low HERS rating often spend less time on the market. This is because buyers: The confidence instilled by a verified HERS score creates urgency, giving sellers an advantage in negotiations. Improved Marketability for Older Homes Older homes in Massachusetts may have charm and location benefits but often struggle with high energy bills. By obtaining a HERS rating and making targeted improvements to lower the score, sellers can transform older properties into competitive, efficient listings that rival newer builds. Factors Influencing the Impact of HERS Ratings on Resale Several key aspects determine how much a HERS rating will influence your resale value: Energy Improvements That Enhance HERS Scores and Value Upgrading Insulation and Air Sealing Many homes in Massachusetts lose heating and cooling efficiency due to inadequate insulation or air leaks. Improvements in these areas can: Installing High-Efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems Upgrading to modern HVAC systems, especially ENERGY STAR-certified models, improves energy performance dramatically. Massachusetts homes rely heavily on heating in colder months, so buyers value systems that: Adding Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors Replacing outdated single-pane windows with double or triple-glazed, low-emissivity options reduces energy loss and improves a home’s aesthetic value. This upgrade contributes to a lower HERS rating and makes the home more attractive to buyers concerned about drafts and comfort. Incorporating Renewable Energy Sources Solar panels can reduce the HERS score to near zero when integrated properly. For buyers aiming for net-zero or near net-zero living, solar installations add: The Massachusetts Advantage for Low HERS Scores Massachusetts has several programs and policies that make obtaining and improving HERS ratings even more beneficial: These factors strengthen the connection between HERS ratings and higher resale value within the state. Role of Real Estate Agents in Highlighting HERS Ratings Educated real estate agents understand how to leverage HERS ratings to market homes effectively. By: agents can position the home as superior value compared to properties without verified ratings. Learn More: What Triggers a HERS Rating in Massachusetts Maximising Resale Value Through Professional HERS Assessment A professional HERS rating from a certified provider like HERS Rating Company ensures homeowners receive: Whether selling an existing home or building a new one, engaging professional raters ensures you fully capitalise on energy efficiency benefits. Key Takeaways for Massachusetts Homeowners Partnering with HERS Rating Company At HERS Rating Company, we are committed to helping homeowners, builders, and real estate professionals maximise the value of their properties. Our certified team: Final Thoughts In a state that prioritises energy efficiency, a low HERS rating is more than just a number – it’s a strategic investment in your property’s future resale value. If you are preparing to sell your home or planning renovations to enhance market appeal, contact HERS Rating Company today for a professional assessment and unlock the full potential of your property in the Massachusetts real estate market.

If you’re planning to build a new home, add an extension, or carry out major renovations in Massachusetts, it’s crucial to know what triggers a HERS rating in Massachusetts. Missing this requirement can cause delays in your project approvals and occupancy permits. Here is a comprehensive breakdown to help homeowners, contractors, and builders stay compliant and improve energy efficiency outcomes. Overview of HERS Ratings in Massachusetts The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) is an industry-standard method for measuring a home’s energy efficiency. It provides a numerical score; the lower the number, the more energy-efficient the property is. A typical new home built to code scores around 100, while a net-zero energy home scores 0. Massachusetts strongly integrates HERS ratings into its building codes to ensure homes are constructed or renovated to meet modern energy efficiency standards. This reduces overall energy consumption, saves homeowners on utility costs, and supports the state’s climate goals. New Construction Requirements Triggering HERS Ratings New Residential Builds in Massachusetts Most new residential constructions in Massachusetts will require a HERS rating, especially if located within municipalities that have adopted the Stretch Energy Code. The Stretch Code is an optional, more stringent energy code under the Massachusetts building code framework that focuses on high energy performance. Under the Stretch Energy Code: Failing to achieve the target rating could mean delays in receiving final approval from local building departments. Towns and Cities Adopting the Stretch Energy Code Over 300 municipalities in Massachusetts have adopted the Stretch Energy Code. In these areas: Therefore, if your construction project is in a Stretch Code town, plan for a HERS rating from design stage onwards to integrate energy-efficient systems and materials effectively. Additions That Trigger HERS Ratings in Massachusetts Large Additions Over 1,000 Square Feet If you’re planning an addition to your home, be aware of these triggers: Doubling Existing Conditioned Floor Area Alternatively, even if your addition is less than 1,000 square feet, it will require a HERS rating if: Conditioned floor area refers to spaces that are heated or cooled, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and finished basements. Unconditioned areas like garages or attics are excluded. For example, if your home has a conditioned floor area of 800 square feet and you build an 800-square-foot addition, you have doubled it, thus triggering the HERS rating requirement. Ensuring Compliance During Addition Projects Before starting construction: This avoids last-minute design changes or added expenses near project completion. Major Renovations and Remodels Requiring HERS Ratings Level 3 Alterations Under IEBC Significant renovations categorised as Level 3 alterations under the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) may also trigger a HERS rating requirement. Level 3 alterations are defined as: Examples include: These extensive renovations alter the building’s energy performance significantly, warranting a HERS assessment to ensure compliance with modern energy efficiency standards. Benefits of HERS Ratings During Renovations While some homeowners view HERS ratings as an additional cost, incorporating them during major remodels offers: Energy Efficiency Programs Triggering HERS Ratings Participating in Local Incentive and Rebate Programs If you plan to participate in local utility-sponsored energy efficiency programs, a HERS rating may be required to verify: Programs often require a certified HERS rater to evaluate the project to determine incentive eligibility. The rating process includes plan reviews, onsite inspections, blower door testing, and duct leakage testing. Ensuring Eligibility for Maximum Rebates By involving a HERS rater early, homeowners and builders can: Process of Obtaining a HERS Rating in Massachusetts Hiring a Certified HERS Rater A HERS rating can only be conducted by a certified HERS rater accredited through RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network). In Massachusetts, many raters are experienced with Stretch Code compliance for residential construction. The typical process involves: Submission to Building Departments For new construction and qualifying additions or remodels: Non-compliance could delay project approvals or result in costly retrofits to meet the target score. Common Questions About HERS Rating Triggers in Massachusetts Are Small Additions Exempt? Additions smaller than 1,000 square feet that do not double the conditioned floor area generally do not trigger HERS ratings under the Stretch Code. However, energy efficiency standards under the base building code still apply. Does Every Town Require a HERS Rating? Only municipalities adopting the Stretch Energy Code mandate HERS ratings for new construction. However, due to its widespread adoption across Massachusetts, most towns enforce this requirement. Can a HERS Rating Lower Construction Costs? While obtaining a HERS rating involves testing fees, early integration of efficiency measures often leads to lower HVAC sizing requirements, reduced long-term utility costs, and eligibility for rebates, offsetting initial expenses. Benefits of Meeting HERS Rating Requirements Improved Energy Efficiency Homes with lower HERS scores consume less energy for heating, cooling, and electricity, leading to significant savings for homeowners. Increased Home Value Energy-efficient homes with documented HERS ratings are often more attractive to buyers, commanding higher resale values. Compliance with State Climate Goals By meeting HERS rating requirements, builders and homeowners contribute to Massachusetts’ targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning towards a more sustainable built environment. Final Thoughts Understanding what triggers a HERS rating in Massachusetts is essential for anyone involved in residential construction or major renovations. In summary: Proactive planning with certified HERS raters ensures code compliance, maximises energy efficiency, and provides long-term financial and environmental benefits for Massachusetts homeowners.