The Building Performance Institute Inc. (BPI) announced the release for preliminary testing of the second version of HPXML, a protocol designed to facilitate and simplify the transfer of home performance-related data.

The Energy Conservatory announced that Frank Spevak, VP of sales and marketing, will be a featured co-presenter at the 2011 ACI Home Energy Trainer Conference being held Nov. 1-2, 2011, at the Hilton Charlotte Center City, Charlotte, N.C.

In my last article, we talked about my firm belief that home performance contracting (HPC) is the next big game-changer for residential HVAC contractors. This article focuses on the training, skillsets, and specialized tools needed to become a successful home performance contractor.

Home performance contracting is taking the country by storm. Well, maybe not yet a thunderstorm, but in every meeting of HVAC contractors that I have attended in the last 18 months, at least some mention of measuring systems — testing in and testing out — has been on the agenda.

This article is the third of three in a series about home performance contracting. In this final article of the series, we examine those criteria that require critical investigation in the selection of a home performance contracting partner.

The Building Performance Institute Inc. (BPI) and the National Association for State Community Services Programs (NASCSP) are partnering to promote BPI’s Green Jobs Connection.

Carrier announced the introduction of its Energy Experts program at the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Indoor Air Expo in Las Vegas. A nationwide program for Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers, the company said that Energy Experts focuses on improving home performance and reducing consumer’s energy costs.

The Building Performance Institute Inc. (BPI) announced that, in June 2012, it will introduce four new home energy professional certifications to the weatherization and home performance workforce. The certifications include energy auditor, retrofit installer, crew leader, and quality control inspector.

Carrier Corp. recently introduced its Energy Experts program. The nationwide program is designed for Carrier factory authorized dealers and focuses on improving home performance and reducing consumer energy costs.

The Building Performance Institute Inc. (BPI) announced the cost of BPI certification exams has been approved for GI Bill reimbursement. Eligible veterans in the Eastern Region of the United States may be reimbursed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.