Rhode Island adopted a stretch code to encourage the construction of Zero-Energy Ready Homes (ZERH). ZERH certified homes are intended to be designed and constructed to a standard that allows them to achieve zero net energy status, on an annual basis, following the installation of an on-site renewable energy system ‒ typically, a photovoltaic (PV) solar electric system.
Compliance with the DOE Zero Energy Ready Homes National Program Requirements (Rev. 06,) with Rhode Island amendments is required for compliance with this code, although alternative compliance pathways exist.