WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is inviting industry stakeholders involved in the development, finance, and maintenance of multifamily properties, and others in the home performance industry to review and comment on its Standard Work Specifications for Multifamily Energy Upgrades. Developed under DOE’s Guidelines for Home Energy Professionals project, the specifications are voluntary guidelines that outline minimum requirements for high-quality energy upgrades in multifamily homes. The industry review period will remain open through May 4, 2012.

The Guidelines for Home Energy Professionals project is a collaboration between DOE and industry to support high-quality home energy upgrade work through voluntary standard work specifications, accredited training programs, and voluntary national worker certifications. In addition to the Standard Work Specifications for Multifamily Energy Upgrades, specifications are being developed for single-family and manufactured housing.

DOE said strong industry involvement is essential to the success of the Guidelines for Home Energy Professionals project and the Standard Work Specifications for Multifamily Energy Upgrades. The industry review and comment period offers an opportunity to review the latest specifications and provide feedback through an online tool. This industry review will be followed by a public comment period.