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Multifamily Review Organization: ENERGY STAR and Zero Energy Ready Homes

BER is proud to have been recognized by the EPA and DOE as a Multifamily Review Organization (MRO). We are one of only four organizations nationwide holding this designation.

About Multifamily Review Organizations

An MRO is a third-party organization recognized by the EPA and DOE to provide oversight for multifamily projects pursuing certification under the Prescriptive or ASHRAE paths of the new ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction and Zero Energy Ready (ZERH) programs . To be recognized as an MRO, an organization must demonstrate impartiality, a commitment to a high level of quality assurance, and nationwide reach.

Photo collage of contractor looking at apartments, newly constructed eco-friendly apartments, architects consulting over blueprints.

Certification Pathways

The program presents multiple certification options for residential buildings of all sizes.

  • The Prescriptive path allows projects to achieve certification following strict guidelines for insulation, mechanicals, and testing.
  • The Energy Rating Index (ERI) path works by conducting energy ratings on individual dwelling units under the supervision of a RESNET Rating Provider.
  • The ASHRAE path allows certification by conducting whole building testing and modeling based on ASHRAE Standard 90.1.
  1. Follow a prescriptive package of energy efficient measures in both dwelling units AND common spaces (Not available in California)
  2. Fill out the workbook and checklists
  3. Submit to BER for approval
  1. Model the entire building to achieve the above code performance target
  2. Fill out the workbook and checklists
  3. Submit to BER for approval

Raters work with an HCO (via their HERS Provider) and approved HERS software

  1. Model the dwelling units to meet or exceed an Energy Rating Index (ERI) Target
  2. Fill out the design and field checklists
  3. Follow a prescriptive package of energy efficient measures in common spaces
  4. Submit for approval through BER's HERSPro

How to Work with BER as Your MRO

The MRO designation allows us to support all your multifamily projects, regardless of which path is the best fit. We provide project support right from the outset by reviewing documentation, identifying opportunities throughout the building process, offering technical assistance, and performing field assessments as required to ensure success at the final certification stage.

Training is required regardless of the certification path you choose. To learn more, visit our Trainings:

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ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction Training

Required training for raters participating in the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction program.

If you would like to learn more about the ENERGY STAR Multifamily New Construction or the DOE ZERH program or how to work with BER as your MRO, please contact us!

Get started working with BER as your
Multifamily Review Organization

Download BER's ENERGY STAR MRO Flyer

Need a digital copy of all information about working with BER as your Multifamily Review Organization?

Download a copy of BER's ENERGY STAR MRO flyer.

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