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Built to a higher standard: Thousands of energy-efficient new homes being constructed in Minnesota

Homeowners to benefit from energy savings

2019-04-22T05:00:00Z

Minneapolis – April 22, 2019 – CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy recently recognized 14 Minnesota companies with new home construction energy efficiency standards awards after successfully concluding the 2018 program year of the High Efficiency New Homes Program. The program's goal is to increase access to energy-efficient homes in Minnesota and is a joint offering to utility service area builders, successfully supporting the construction of more 5,000 energy efficient new homes in 2018.

High Efficiency New Homes are built to a higher energy standard than code requires and create a lifetime of benefits to homeowners, including increased comfort, lower energy bills, healthier indoor spaces, and retained value. Each participating home is inspected and tested by a third-party professional trained in advanced building science using the Home Energy Rating System (HERS). The HERS Index is the industry standard by which a home's energy efficiency is measured. It is also the nationally recognized system for inspecting and calculating a new home's energy performance by a HERS rater.

"The High Efficiency New Homes Program continues to be well-received by our customers," said Ryan Setterholm, senior administrator of Efficiency Programs for CenterPoint Energy. "Each year, we build upon our previous successes and are committed to helping our customers find ways to save energy and money."

In 2018, the program collectively saved more than 2.9 million kilowatt hours and 129,400 dekatherms, which is the equivalent of powering 1,899 passenger cars for an entire year according to the EPA greenhouse gas equivalencies calculator. CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy partner with ICF to deliver the program. ICF, a global consulting services company, has delivered more than 200,000 energy-efficient new homes for utility programs across the nation.

The utilities honored the following 14 top-performing program participants in 2018 at an event in early April:

Amaris Homes, LLC
Daytons Bluff, NHS
Derrick Custom Homes
Gorham Custom Homes, LLC
Hedberg Homes
Hendel Homes
Lennar
NIH Homes
R Henry Construction
RJ Stegora Inc
Sustainable 9 Design + Build
Center for Energy and Environment (HERS Rater)
St. Croix Energy Solutions Inc (HERS Rater)
XRG Concepts, LLC (HERS Rater)

"We are always working with our customers – large and small – to help them find ways to become more energy efficient," said Rob Buchanan, Xcel Energy portfolio product manager. "We're proud to work with home builders throughout Minnesota to help them bring healthy, comfortable and efficient new homes to future homeowners."

The 2019 program goal is to complete more than 3,500 high efficiency new homes. Participating new homes must complete a home energy rating performed by a certified home energy rater in good standing.

For more information about the program, including a list of all participating builders, contact Hannah Jansen at 1-612-253-9982 or email at Hannah.Jansen@icf.com.

About CenterPoint Energy
Headquartered in Houston, Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. is an energy delivery company with regulated utility businesses in eight states and a competitive energy businesses footprint in nearly 40 states. Through its electric transmission & distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution businesses, the company serves more than 7 million metered customers primarily in Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas. CenterPoint Energy's competitive energy businesses include natural gas marketing and energy-related services; energy efficiency, sustainability and infrastructure modernization solutions; and construction and repair services for pipeline systems, primarily natural gas. The company also owns 54.0 percent of the common units representing limited partner interests in Enable Midstream Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns, operates and develops strategically located natural gas and crude oil infrastructure assets. With approximately 14,000 employees and nearly $29 billion in assets, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

About Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow on Twitter and Facebook.

Recent News

As spring begins, CenterPoint Energy continues progress toward strengthening the grid across the Greater Houston area and shares tips to help customers stay safe while saving energy and money

Houston – March 20, 2025 – With today marking the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy is continuing to strengthen the resiliency of the grid in key areas ahead of the 2025 hurricane season. To date, the company has completed more than 50 percent of several near-term critical resiliency actions and grid improvements outlined in the second phase of its Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative (GHRI), including installing stronger poles, adding more automation devices, undergrounding power lines and trimming hazardous vegetation.

As the company works to complete these steps before the start of hurricane season on June 1, CenterPoint is also helping customers prepare for the warmer weather ahead by sharing tools, easy-to-implement tips and resources to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, and staying safe as they complete projects around their homes.

“Our team remains fully focused on executing our historic effort to strengthen the grid and improve resiliency and reliability. As CenterPoint prepares for hurricane season, we want to remind customers of ways they can prepare, too. The first day of spring serves as a great reminder that warmer temperatures are coming. We encourage our customers to take steps to increase the energy efficiency of their homes so that they can continue to stay comfortable inside year-round while also reducing their energy use," said Tony Gardner, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at CenterPoint, "We also want to remind customers to keep safety top of mind by taking the time to contact 811 prior to starting any digging projects near their home. By taking this easy step, our customers and community members are taking a critical first step in helping keep themselves, their loved ones and neighbors safe."

Tips, tools and resources for customers to spring into energy and cost savings

Customers can do the following to help spring into energy and cost savings:

Do a spring cleaning by changing or cleaning the filters in HVAC systems: Air conditioning can represent approximately 50 percent of a home's energy use as outside temperatures increase. Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of a home's system, so swap out or clean filters to minimize costly repairs and to keep the system running efficiently.
Maintain a comfortable temperature indoors year-round: To save energy and reduce cooling costs, use weatherstripping or caulk areas in and around a home where cooled air may escape such as around windows and doors or where warm air could enter.
Block the sun's rays during warmer days: When temperatures increase outside, keep window coverings closed when the sun is shining brightest to maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature.
Save hot water while maintaining comfort: Showering accounts for 40 percent of a home's hot water use, so energy-saving showerheads and faucet aerators can help lower energy costs and reduce hot water use without sacrificing comfort.

Upgrade to more energy efficient appliances and equipment: When replacing appliances and equipment, look for ENERGY STAR®-certified products for increased energy efficiency and cost savings over time. Energy efficiency rebates may be available for qualifying appliances.

Customers can learn more about energy savings tips and tools that help them prepare for the longer and warmer days in addition to ways to manage their monthly energy bills at CenterPointEnergy.com/SavingsTips.

GHRI Progress Milestone: More than 50% complete on several key metrics
On Sept. 30, CenterPoint announced the launch of Phase Two of the GHRI, which will strengthen the grid in advance of hurricane season, included a series of actions to strengthen resiliency, enable a self-healing power system and reduce the duration and impact of power outages. In February alone, the company made progress in key areas including:

Installed approximately 2,900 stronger, more storm-resilient poles built to withstand extreme winds;
Cleared another 417 miles of high-risk vegetation near power lines to reduce storm-related outages; and
Installed an additional 1,334 automated reliability devices to reduce the impact of outages and improve restoration times; and
Undergrounded 47 more miles of power lines to reduce the impact of extreme weather.

The resiliency actions outlined in GHRI Phase Two are expected to lead to more than 125 million fewer outage minutes annually for customers. Through early March, the company has made significant advances across its Greater Houston service area and is on track to complete its work before the start of hurricane season.

CenterPoint will continue to provide updates on its progress toward completing its critical resiliency actions and other GHRI commitments. More information and real-time updates are available at CenterPointEnergy.com/TakingAction.

Electric customers encouraged to enroll in Power Alert Service ®

In addition to reducing energy use and improving efficiency, customers are encouraged to enroll in CenterPoint Energy's Power Alert Service® to receive outage details, estimated restoration times (as available or determined) and customer-specific restoration updates in the event of a power outage. With the option to receive updates via phone call, text or email, Power Alert Service® keeps customers informed of restoration progress during an outage.

Call before you dig

Spring is a great time to begin outdoor home improvement projects. Anyone planning a project that requires digging should contact 811 at least two days prior to starting work to have underground utilities located and marked at no cost. This includes projects done by customers or their contractors, including building a fence, planting trees, installing a deck, placing a mailbox or laying a patio.

Visit 811BeforeYouDig.com to learn more about 811 and the process to have underground utility lines located and marked. For more information about natural gas safety, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/Safety.

With the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers of tips and available resources to save energy, manage bills and stay safe

Dayton – March 20, 2025 – With today marking the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy encourages customers to leverage tools, tips and resources as part of their spring cleaning and preparation. Customers can unlock energy savings through a combination of easy-to-implement tips, remain connected to company programs and stay safe as they complete projects around their homes.

“At CenterPoint, we have tips, tools and programs to help customers save energy and manage their bills. The first day of spring serves as a great reminder that warmer temperatures are approaching, and we encourage our customers to take steps to increase the energy efficiency of their homes so that they can continue to stay comfortable inside year-round while also reducing their energy use. By taking small and easy actions, customers can make a big difference in reducing their monthly energy bills," said Tony Gardner, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at CenterPoint. “We also want to remind customers to keep safety top of mind by taking the time to contact 811 prior to starting any digging projects near their home. By taking this easy step, our customers and community members are taking a critical first step in helping keep themselves, their loved ones and neighbors safe."

Tips, tools and resources for customers to spring into energy and cost savings

Customers can do the following to help spring into energy and cost savings:

Perform a spring cleaning by changing or cleaning the filters in HVAC systems: Air conditioning can represent approximately 50 percent of a home's energy use as outside temperatures increase. Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of a home's system, so swap out or clean filters to minimize costly repairs and keep the system running efficiently.
Maintain a comfortable temperature indoors year-round: To save energy and reduce cooling costs, use weatherstripping or caulk areas in and around a home where cooled air may escape, such as around windows and doors or where warm air could enter.
Block the sun's rays during warmer days: When temperatures increase outside, keep window coverings closed when the sun is shining brightest to maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature.
Save hot water while maintaining comfort: Showering accounts for 40 percent of a home's hot water use. Energy-saving showerheads and faucet aerators can help lower energy costs and reduce hot water use without sacrificing comfort.

Call before you dig

Spring is a great time to begin outdoor home improvement projects. Anyone planning a project that requires digging should contact 811 at least two days prior to starting work to have underground utilities located and marked at no cost. This includes projects done by customers or their contractors, including building a fence, planting trees, installing a deck, placing a mailbox or laying a patio.

With the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers of tips and available resources to save energy, manage bills and stay safe

Minneapolis – March 20, 2025 – With today marking the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy encourages customers to leverage tools, tips and resources as part of their spring cleaning and preparation. Customers can unlock energy savings through a combination of easy-to-implement tips, remain connected to company programs and stay safe as they complete projects around their homes.

Tips, tools and resources for customers to spring into energy and cost savings

Customers can do the following to help spring into energy and cost savings:

Perform a spring cleaning by changing or cleaning the filters in HVAC systems: Air conditioning can represent approximately 50 percent of a home's energy use as outside temperatures increase. Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of a home's system, so swap out or clean filters to minimize costly repairs and keep the system running efficiently.
Maintain a comfortable temperature indoors year-round: To save energy and reduce cooling costs, use weatherstripping or caulk areas in and around a home where cooled air may escape, such as around windows and doors or where warm air could enter.
Block the sun's rays during warmer days: When temperatures increase outside, keep window coverings closed when the sun is shining brightest to maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature.
Save hot water while maintaining comfort: Showering accounts for 40 percent of a home's hot water use. Energy-saving showerheads and faucet aerators can help lower energy costs and reduce hot water use without sacrificing comfort.
Upgrade to more energy efficient appliances and equipment: When replacing appliances and equipment, look for ENERGY STAR®-certified products for increased energy efficiency and cost savings over time. Energy efficiency rebates may be available for qualifying appliances.

Call before you dig

With the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers of tips and available resources to save energy, manage bills and stay safe

Evansville, Ind. – March 20, 2025 – With today marking the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy encourages customers to leverage tools, tips and resources as part of their spring cleaning and preparation. Customers can unlock energy savings through a combination of easy-to-implement tips, remain connected to company programs and stay safe as they complete projects around their homes.

Tips, tools and resources for customers to spring into energy and cost savings

Customers can do the following to help spring into energy and cost savings:

Perform a spring cleaning by changing or cleaning the filters in HVAC systems: Air conditioning can represent approximately 50 percent of a home's energy use as outside temperatures increase. Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of a home's system, so swap out or clean filters to minimize costly repairs and keep the system running efficiently.
Maintain a comfortable temperature indoors year-round: To save energy and reduce cooling costs, use weatherstripping or caulk areas in and around a home where cooled air may escape, such as around windows and doors or where warm air could enter.
Block the sun's rays during warmer days: When temperatures increase outside, keep window coverings closed when the sun is shining brightest to maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature.
Save hot water while maintaining comfort: Showering accounts for 40 percent of a home's hot water use. Energy-saving showerheads and faucet aerators can help lower energy costs and reduce hot water use without sacrificing comfort.
Upgrade to more energy efficient appliances and equipment: When replacing appliances and equipment, look for ENERGY STAR®-certified products for increased energy efficiency and cost savings over time. Energy efficiency rebates may be available for qualifying appliances.

Electric customers encouraged to enroll in Power Alert Service®

In addition to reducing energy use and improving efficiency, customers are encouraged to enroll in CenterPoint Energy's Power Alert Service® to receive outage details, estimated restoration times (as available or determined) and customer-specific restoration updates in the event of a power outage. With the option to receive updates via phone call, text or email, Power Alert Service® keeps customers informed of restoration progress during an outage.

Call before you dig

In celebration of Natural Gas Utility Workers Day, CenterPoint Energy honors team members who work every day to serve customers and communities

Houston – March 18, 2025 – Every year, March 18 is recognized as Natural Gas Utility Workers Day, which is a moment to pause and honor the important role natural gas utility workers play in serving as emergency responders and keeping natural gas safely flowing to the businesses and homes in the many communities CenterPoint Energy is privileged to serve. CenterPoint honors the company's employees and those who work throughout the natural gas industry for their tireless work in providing safe, reliable and resilient service to those who rely on natural gas.

CenterPoint's approximately 3,500 natural gas utility workers play a critical role in installing and maintaining natural gas infrastructure such as pipelines and meters, supporting the delivery of energy service to customers, educating the public on natural gas safety and adhering to rigorous safety standards to protect their communities and the environment.

“Our natural gas utility workforce keeps safety at the forefront of all they do. Whether installing natural gas service or responding to emergency calls from customers, our workers focus on delivering resilient, readily available energy solutions for customers. No matter the temperature outside nor the time of day, our natural gas workers are there to help meet the needs of our customers and communities to keep them safe, maintain warmth and enable possibilities to support business needs. We honor and celebrate natural gas utility workers, not just today, but for the work they do every day to help keep us all safe," said Richard Leger, CenterPoint's Senior Vice President, Gas Business.

At CenterPoint, natural gas utility workers serve more than 4.3 million customers across six states, monitor and maintain more than 75,000 miles of distribution pipeline and deploy advanced leak detection technologies to monitor more than 80% of the company's natural gas assets.

In 2024 alone, the company's natural gas utility workers helped:

Replace more than 470 miles of pipeline to help advance efforts to modernize the company's natural gas distribution systems using modern construction materials and installation methods, including efforts to replace cast iron infrastructure.
Deploy more than 250,000 natural gas smart meters across the company's service area, which include enhanced safety and communications features.
Complete more than 2.5 million locates of the company's natural gas facilities, which help customers and community members dig safely and mitigate potential service disruptions.

Tips for customers to stay safe

Safety is CenterPoint's top priority. In addition to the company's employees' commitment to working safely, the company would like to remind customers to always keep natural gas safety top of mind by:

Calling before your dig: Anyone planning a project that requires digging should contact 811 at least two days prior to their work starting to have underground utilities located at no cost.
Learning to recognize a natural gas leak by using one's eyes, ears and noses:

Look for signs of a natural gas leak including persistent bubbling in standing water and discolored or dead vegetation around a pipeline.
Listen for any unusual noises such as whistling, hissing or roaring sounds.
Smell for the distinctive, strong odor, often compared to rotten eggs or sulfur from mercaptan which is added to natural gas for safety detection purposes.

Immediately reporting a suspected natural gas leak: If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car or do anything that could cause a spark inside or close to the location.

To learn more about CenterPoint's commitment to natural gas safety, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/Safety.

Images associated with this release can be found at: https://cnplibrary.canto.com/b/UJQKH. These photos are made available courtesy of CenterPoint Energy.