Answer:

(reprinted from BPI)

Originally the joint certification was to be called the Home Performance Analyst but the certification was changed to fit within the context of the RESNET National Home Energy Audit Standard. "We view this collaboration with RESNET as a significant opportunity for BPI Building Analysts to expand the scope of their service offerings in residential buildings - both new and existing," says BPI Chairman, Laverne Dalgleish. "There is a tremendous need for comprehensive improvements to the performance of the nation's 120 million homes and this standard will serve as the basis for analyzing the building and determining the priorities for getting the proper work done," according to Dalgleish.

RESNET President, Philip Fairey, applauds the new standard by stating, "RESNET Raters have long had the opportunity to rate the energy performance of both new and existing buildings, but what this standard provides the Rater is the opportunity to better serve their existing home clients through a comprehensive home energy audit process. In addition," he adds, "the creation of a dual certification between our two organizations will eliminate confusion on the part of the general public and state and utility program sponsors as to what constitutes a comprehensive home energy audit."

The joint standard, currently in draft form, will be approved very soon. – Monica Rokicki-Guajardo