A Home Energy Score pilot program was launched by the DOE on Nov. 9.

AHome Energy Scorepilot program was launched by the DOE on Nov. 9. Under this voluntary program, trained and certified contractors will use a standardized assessment tool developed by the DOE and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to quickly evaluate a home and generate information for home owners or prospective home buyers. The Home Energy Score initially will be tested with local government, utility and nonprofit partners in 10 pilot communities across the country, located in both urban and rural areas that cover a wide range of climates. After the pilot tests conclude in late spring 2011, the DOE expects to launch the Home Energy Score nationally later next year, based on the findings from the initial programs.