Electric Power Board of Chattanooga - Smart Build New Homes Program for Builders & Developers

EPB Smart Build homes are constructed to achieve a minimum HERS energy efficiency score of 93 and come pre-wired with Cat-5e ethernet and dual outlets in each living space, positioning your home for energy savings and future-ready fiber connectivity. You benefit from a certified, high-quality home built to these standards without taking additional action—the builder handles all requirements including inspections and centralized wiring installation.

Join EPB Smart Build to differentiate your new homes as certified energy-efficient and fiber-ready, helping you sell faster and reduce callbacks from satisfied homeowners. Requirements include pre-wiring homes with Cat-5e ethernet, installing dual Cat-5e outlets in each living space, running all communication wiring to a centralized home run box, passing all required inspections, and achieving a minimum HERS score of 93; EPB assigns a dedicated Smart Build Energy Expert to support you through the process.

EPB Smart Build is a new construction certification program that waives certain standard charges and provides incentives and promotional support to builders meeting defined efficiency and technology readiness criteria. Participation requires verification of a HERS score of 93 or better, Cat-5e pre-wiring and outlet installation, centralized home run box infrastructure, and passing inspections; the program targets residential new construction (single-family and multifamily) within EPB's service territory and assigns dedicated program staff to participating contractors.