Home Innovation Insights

Insider insights on what's going on in the home building industry.

Browse
Archive
Pranav Phatak
September 29, 2023

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): Everything You Need to Know

All our readers are probably aware of the benefits of green power by this point. Switching to green power or renewable energy from fossil fuels is one of the best ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and is a much cleaner form of energy. But what if you don’t have your own wind/hydel turbines or solar panels? How do you ensure that the energy you are receiving from the grid is coming from a green or renewable source? A Renewable Energy Certificate or a ‘REC’ would be the best alternative.

comments (0)

Continue Reading


Pranav Phatak
December 9, 2022

WaterSense Technical Evaluation – Behind the Scenes

In February 2021, the U.S. EPA recognized Home Innovation Research Labs as a Home Certifying Organization (HCO) for the WaterSense Labeled Homes Program.

In this role, Home Innovation will administer verification and certification for the WaterSense program. Homes earning the WaterSense label must meet the water efficiency requirements using Home Innovation’s WaterSense Approved Certification Method (WACM), which is based on selected practices of the 2020 NGBS. Any home or building that has earned the WaterSense label is constructed at least 30% more efficient than standard construction.

comments (0)

Continue Reading


Pranav Phatak
November 28, 2022

Understanding the Threat of Radon

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, so we are spot lighting a leading cause of lung cancer that should be considered and tested during construction. In addition to energy and water efficiency and other green practices, NGBS Green certified homes have protections against radon intrusion so a home buyer can have peace of mind.

comments (0)

Continue Reading


Pranav Phatak
November 9, 2022

The Gladstone Earns Recognitions for Wellness and Inclusive Living

The Gladstone is an “Age in Place” home for healthy and inclusive living, incorporating a variety of universal design features that promote accessibility for homeowners and visitors.

comments (0)

Continue Reading

  • 1
Author Bio
Pranav Phatak, research engineer
Pranav Phatak
Sustainable Building Scientist

Pranav is a Mechanical Engineer who joined the Home Innovation team in 2020, splitting his time between the Building Science and NGBS Green Certification divisions. He is an EIT and LEED - Green Associate with specific skills in MEP, building commissioning, CAD, and manufacturing, and extensive knowledge of HVAC and thermal systems, renewable/non-conventional energy, and power plant equipment operations.