Brian,
Last month I took a one-week course at Southface in Atlanta called 'Home Performance with Energy Star' (HPwES). Having passed the written test and a field test I received a 'Building Analyst' certification from BPI (Building Performance Institute). I have ordered my equipment (blower door, duct blaster, etc.) and will need to complete 2 or 3 mentored assessments before I can participate in the E-Star Colorado program.
The HPwES course was very good. It deals with existing homes, not apply to new constrution. It concentrates on air infiltration, insulation, indoor air quality and combustion safety. We discussed heat loss and heat gain and went through a few theoretical calculations but the HPwES program does not determine heat loss/gain.
A friend took a HERS course in Kansas. In doing a HERS rating a score, 0 - 100, is given to a house. The lower the better. They do calculate heat loss/gain. HERS ratings can be done for new homes, including Energy Star homes.
I expect more and more people will be interested in home energy efficiency as fuel prices increase and supplies dwindle.
Take a look at these web sites:
Home : ENERGY STAR
Southface Home Page
What is the HERS Index? : ENERGY STAR
Colorado does not regulate energy assessments. I don't know about your state. I will be participating in the E-Star Colorado HPwES program; they act as a sponsor and provide independent 3rd party QA. I suggest you find out who, if anyone, does that in your area.
Good luck.
