Massachusetts-based utility NSTAR has launched a package of online energy efficiency tools for its customers including a home energy audit.

The HomeEnergySuite™ by online energy analysis specialist Apogee Interactive gathers information from a homeowner about their energy usage and then calculates their carbon footprint and a series of energy-saving recommendations.

NSTAR customised the Apogee tool for the region’s typical weather, energy rates and home building standards to give a more accurate picture of a home’s energy efficiency.

The ‘Home Analyzer’ also calculates a benchmark score so that customers can compare the efficiency of their home with the US national ENERGY STAR® standard for homes.

Users of the HomeEnergySuite™ can also tour round an interactive house offering room-by-room energy efficiency tips and detailed calculators that show how much energy individual appliances such as TVs, computers and other electric equipment actually consume.

“The desire to live a ‘green’ lifestyle has moved well beyond a casual interest into serious mainstream thinking,” says Penni McLean-Conner of NSTAR. “We want customers to know how to save energy and money in their homes.”