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The Energy Star certification for buildings signifies that the building generates a lower carbon footprint than the typical building, resulting in saved energy and money for the inhabitants. To achieve the certification, the building must achieve a minimum score of 75 on the Environmental Protection Agency’s 100-point scoring system, which takes several factors into account, including the number of occupants, the building’s size, and location, among others.
Further, certification is presented annually, meaning buildings must undergo re-evaluation every year to ensure they continue meeting the Energy Star standard. The information gathered during these evaluations is sent to independent registered architects or professional engineers, who determine if the building has maintained Energy Star certification eligibility based on the data presented.