At Brighton, energy efficiency has always been more than a feature, it’s a foundational part of how we build. For decades, Brighton has been recognized for creating homes that prioritize performance, comfort, and sustainability.

While Brighton has a long history of constructing homes certified through the EnergyStar program, certification has never been the only measure of quality. The company’s approach has always focused on the tangible results homeowners experience every day — consistent comfort, lower utility costs, and long-term durability.

That same commitment continues today through Brighton’s High Performance Home Standards, an evolved approach to energy-efficient building that meets or exceeds the benchmarks once associated with EnergyStar homes.

The Changing Landscape: The Future of the EnergyStar Program

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced plans to phase out the EnergyStar program, which has long served as a national standard for energy-efficient building. This change impacts both builders and homeowners who have relied on the program for guidance and comparison.

Rather than viewing this shift as a loss, Brighton sees it as an opportunity to reinforce its own standards and maintain the same level of energy efficiency homeowners have come to expect. The company remains focused on what truly matters, creating homes that perform at a high level, conserve energy, and provide lasting value.

Building Beyond a Label: Brighton’s High Performance Home Standards

Brighton’s homes are designed with energy efficiency in every layer, from the foundation to the attic. These standards meet or exceed what EnergyStar once represented, ensuring homeowners enjoy lasting comfort, savings, and sustainability.

1. Advanced Air Sealing and Gasketed Construction

Every Brighton home includes gasketed top and bottom plates and sealed attic access points to eliminate hidden air leaks. Multiple stages of air sealing throughout the construction process help maintain consistent indoor temperatures, improve air quality, and enhance long-term performance.

2. R-49 Attic Insulation

Brighton uses R-49 attic insulation to keep homes stable and efficient year-round. This level of insulation helps prevent heat loss during winter and minimizes heat gain during summer, reducing the energy demand on heating and cooling systems.

3. Sound-Dampening Insulation in Key Areas

Efficiency also means comfort. Sound-dampening insulation is strategically installed in key areas to reduce noise from plumbing and appliances, promoting a more peaceful home environment.

4. Fresh Air Fan on Timer

Indoor air quality is an important part of energy-efficient design. A fresh air fan brings in filtered air on a controlled schedule, balancing ventilation and efficiency for a healthier living space.

5. Dual-Zone Heating and Cooling

Each home includes dual-zone heating and cooling systems for independent temperature control between floors. This helps reduce energy waste while maintaining optimal comfort throughout the home.

6. Low-E Argon Windows

Low-E Argon windows minimize heat transfer and block UV rays, keeping interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. They also help protect furnishings from sun damage while lowering overall energy costs.

7. HERS Rating on Every Home

To provide measurable insight into performance, every Brighton home receives a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score. This rating allows homeowners to easily understand and compare their home’s efficiency relative to standard new homes.

Sustainability That Speaks for Itself

Brighton’s approach to sustainability goes beyond any single certification. The company’s construction practices are built around principles that support energy conservation, long-term durability, and occupant comfort.

Each home is designed to deliver real benefits, from lower utility costs and healthier indoor environments to reduced environmental impact. Energy-efficient building isn’t a trend for Brighton; it’s a consistent, proven practice integrated into every step of the construction process.

Building Smarter, Living Better

As national programs evolve, Brighton’s standards remain consistent. Every home is built to perform beautifully, combining thoughtful design, durable materials, and efficient systems that support sustainable living for years to come.