BuildSmart homes are built to a higher standard of energy efficiency.
Benefits for you
- Receive valuable incentives: Earn rebates for Energy Star homes.
- Boost your marketing: Attract buyers and receive site signs and the FPL BuildSmart seal.
- Attract more buyers: Enhance buyer trust and stand out with efficient, cost-effective homes.
How it works:
- BuildSmart homes are certified by FPL to be built to a higher standard of energy efficiency
- BuildSmart homes save up to 20 percent on energy bills, compared with homes that simply comply with the Florida building code
- Our program specialist will partner with you to plan and verify your new home's energy efficient upgrades prior to occupancy
BuildSmart advantages
Florida Energy Code mandates a minimum Home Energy Score (HES) of 95 for all homes. A BuildSmart home exceeds these minimum requirements by at least 10% points, achieving a HES score of 85 or lower and offer many advantages:
Comfort
Energy-saving features ensure your homes are comfortable year-round, attracting buyers who value comfort.
Trust
As a BuildSmart-certified home builder, you meet higher standards, assuring customers of your commitment to quality.
Satisfaction
Reduce energy consumption and protect the environment, appealing to eco-conscious buyers and enhancing your reputation.
Added value
Offer certification packages with energy-saving tips, helping customers save money and adding extra value to your homes.
Get started
BuildSmart options
BuildSmart helps you find cost-effective solutions to exceed the minimum performance requirements of the Florida code. Consumer research* shows that:
- Buyers look to their builder for information about energy efficiency. BuildSmart provides an FPL-endorsed solution that meets the needs of energy-conscious buyers.
- Buyers want homes that cost less to maintain and operate. BuildSmart® homes are designed to deliver lower energy bills.
- Buyers place a greater trust in BuildSmart builders. Differentiate yourself and your product. Our certification acknowledges that your product is superior to homes that simply comply with code, reflecting your commitment to quality.
- Sign Up & Payment Setup: Builder registers and provides payment information for certification services
- Submit HERS Ratings: Builder sends HERS rating documentation for review and verification
- Certification & Payment: We certify the ratings and process builder payment upon completion
Frequently asked questions
To qualify for incentives, homes must:
- Be in FPL service territory
- Be less than 12 months old
- Have a HERS or ERI score of 85 or below
- Have whole-house electric cooling and heating supplied by a central HVAC system
Qualifying energy efficiency measures include:
- High-performance HVAC systems
- Energy-efficient windows and doors
- Proper insulation
- Advanced lighting systems
Note: This program is designed for single-family homes, including attached dwellings (duplexes and townhomes) with separate ground-to-roof walls. Multi-family buildings such as apartments do not qualify.
Yes, you can still participate if your homes meet the same qualifications (10% above code) without being HERS-rated. Although no incentive will be given, you'll receive FPL marketing benefits and home buyers will get a BuildSmart welcome packet and certificate with energy efficiency recommendations.