Affordable Housing New Construction
Introduction
The document, “Affordable Housing New Construction Overview,” provides technical guidance and outlines incentives for developers of affordable housing projects. The program aims to improve living comfort and reduce energy consumption in residential buildings targeted at income-eligible households. This initiative falls under the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program and builds upon a previous scheme administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
Key Highlights of the Program
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Projects must include units designated for households earning at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
- Eligible projects must be located within ComEd’s service territory.
- Designs must comply with or surpass the ComEd Multi-Family Standard and adhere to the Illinois Energy Conservation Code.
- Objective: The program aims to incorporate an integrated suite of energy cost reduction measures in new construction and major renovation projects. This includes single-family and multi-family residences, emphasizing enhanced energy savings and better living conditions for residents.
The ComEd Multi-Family Standard
The ComEd Multi-Family Standard is a set of requirements that buildings must meet to qualify for the program. It emphasizes high energy performance across multiple domains:
- Building Envelope:
- Use of high-performance windows.
- Reduced air infiltration and minimized thermal bridging.
- Lighting:
- Implementation of advanced, high-performance interior and exterior lighting systems.
- HVAC Systems:
- Installation of energy-efficient HVAC equipment integrated with advanced control mechanisms.
- Water Heating:
- Utilization of high-performance water-heating systems coupled with low-flow fixtures.
- Appliances:
- Inclusion of ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and other energy-efficient equipment.
Incentives and Support
The initiative offers technical expertise at no cost to developers and provides monetary incentives to enhance the affordability and energy efficiency of housing projects. Developers are encouraged to apply early in the design process to maximize benefits.
Conclusion
This program is a strategic initiative by ComEd to support affordable housing developers in achieving significant energy savings while providing comfort to low-income households. By adhering to rigorous energy efficiency standards and leveraging the resources offered, developers can contribute to sustainable and affordable living solutions.
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