Energy Efficiency in Affordable Housing – A Guide to Developing and Implementing Greenhouse Gas Reduction Programs
Introduction
This guide provides information for local governments and other stakeholders on developing and implementing energy efficiency programs in affordable housing. Improving energy efficiency in affordable housing can provide many benefits including reducing energy costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and the risk of eviction. The guide highlights planning and design approaches, key participants, program development, and effective implementation strategies. It also provides information on investment and financing opportunities, as well as examples of successful local government programs.
Benefits of Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency in affordable housing reduces greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing the consumption of fossil fuel-based energy, which accounts for a large percentage of the nation’s carbon dioxide emissions. Improving energy efficiency also lowers energy costs, which can be a significant financial burden for low-income households. The federal government’s Partnership for Home Energy Efficiency estimates that many households can save 20-30% on energy costs by improving energy efficiency. Energy-efficient homes can also command a higher sale price and mitigate structural damage, preserving a home’s value. Moreover, reduced energy costs can lower the risk of eviction for residents and help to preserve housing affordability3.
Planning and Design Approaches
Improving energy efficiency in existing affordable housing involves evaluating energy consumption and developing an action plan8. A comprehensive energy audit, conducted by a professional auditor, can help to identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption9. This may be followed by a plan that includes measures like sealing air leaks, adding insulation, and installing energy-efficient windows. Heating and cooling systems can be improved by installing ENERGY STAR labelled equipment. New affordable housing can be designed to incorporate energy efficiency from the start, with features like proper insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, and efficient heating and cooling systems. Green homes should also ensure adequate indoor air quality by controlling moisture and improving ventilation.
Key Participants
Local governments can collaborate with a range of stakeholders to improve energy efficiency in affordable housing16. These participants include:
- Mayors or county executives, who can initiate programs and appoint members to Public Housing Authority (PHA) boards.
- Metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), which can help with integrating housing and transportation plans.
- PHA executive directors and board members, who can support energy efficiency improvements.
- Certified home energy raters, who can provide independent verification of home energy performance.
- Energy service companies (ESCOs), which can implement energy efficiency projects.
- Utilities, which can offer assistance to residents and owners.
- Property management companies, which can ensure that energy efficiency measures remain effective.
- Professional service firms, which can assist in selecting energy efficiency features.
Program Development and Implementation
Local governments can initiate programs through various mechanisms, such as local government resolutions, development agency standards, and PHA resolutions. Planning processes, such as local climate action plans and smart growth plans, can also be used to establish goals for improving energy efficiency. Local governments can also provide incentives to developers, such as grants, loans, fee waivers, and expedited permit reviews. Effective implementation strategies include a team approach, training sessions, and engagement with residents and the public. Coordinating energy efficiency programs with broader energy and environmental goals can also help to gain support for both programs.
Investment and Financing
Improving energy efficiency in affordable housing requires investment, but the costs can be recovered over time through reduced energy consumption. The cost premium for building new energy-efficient green affordable housing can vary, but the life cycle savings can be substantial. Various tools can help calculate the investment and payback period for specific projects. Financing options include energy-efficient mortgages, energy performance contracts, PACE financing, and federal programs such as the HOME program, the Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP), and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. State and local programs also offer funding for energy efficiency improvements.
Case Studies
The guide includes case studies of successful local government programs, such as the Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Conserve Energy-Preserve Public Housing program and Boston’s Green Affordable Housing Program. These programs demonstrate how local governments can successfully integrate energy efficiency into their affordable housing initiatives.
Additional Resources The guide provides a comprehensive list of additional resources, including websites, publications, and programs related to energy efficiency in affordable housing. This list provides support for local governments and stakeholders seeking more information or assistance.
For further reading:
Energy Efficiency in Affordable Housing – U.S. Environmental …