The initial ENERGY STAR^â Qualified Homes specifications were introduced broadly in 1996 and stayed in effect for 10 years with only a few regional modifications. In response to increasing codes, standards and business-as-usual construction practices, EPA introduced more rigorous ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes specifications in 2006. One of the biggest lessons learned was that stakeholders need more time to absorb, understand and plan for change. This lesson is an important because once again it appears that increasing codes and standard practices make it critical to change specifications in order to keep the ENERGY STAR 'brand' relevant. The ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes technical team has developed a proposed framework for specifications to be implemented in 2011 that is currently in a vetting process. In addition, EPA has just launched a new label called Climate Choice for advanced technologies, including new homes. It is being promoted to leading edge builders willing to demonstrate an aggressive package of energy efficiency measures. Effectively, Climate Choice functions much like a ‘farm system’ for future ENERGY STAR specifications. This session will review the proposed ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes 2011 specifications, the implementation process, and the linkage to the new Climate Choice label.