Expert Answers
Are there successful case studies of housing authorities implementing a "utility savings" resident benefits program?
Reducing utility consumption is an important step toward decreasing the environmental impact of your buildings. Behavior-based programs can be an effective way to reduce consumption and increase financial savings, though it’s important to understand the context of your community and to design a program that is accessible and beneficial to residents, too.
Energy Efficiency
Resident Engagement
Resident Health
Can a homeowners association take advantage of the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit?
The HOA cannot directly claim 25C because it must be claimed on an individual’s tax return. However, Treasury clearly states in a Q&A that 25C is available to tenant-stockholders in a cooperative housing corporation and condominium owners by passing through the individual’s proportionate share.
Energy Efficiency
Resident Engagement
As a building owner interested in electrification, what should I consider before starting the process?
It’s a great question, and I’ve organized my answer into three key action steps: 1) Identify funding and financing opportunities, 2) Consider the impact on tenants, and 3) Seek out technical experts.
Energy Efficiency
Retrofit
I want to decarbonize my property. What does that mean?
Decarbonizing buildings is essential for reducing global carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. Building decarbonization involves reducing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the energy consumption required to operate a building.
Decarbonization
Decarbonizing a building sounds complicated. How do I start?
While there are challenges with any building retrofit project, decarbonization may seem overwhelming and paralyzing for some owners; however, there are some key steps that an owner can take to explore and implement building decarbonization solutions. 1) Get to know your building, 2) Establish the project performance goals and other objectives, 3) Reach out to innovative technical partners, 4) Figure out the financing, and 5) Share your lessons learned.
Decarbonization
Retrofit
What are best practices for an organization deploying solar across their portfolio?
Hello! What are best practices for an organization deploying solar across their portfolio? Is there a benefit in conducting a Request for Information (RFI) prior to a formal Request for Proposals (RFP)?
Solar
What key metrics should CDFIs use to measure the impact of decarbonization and mitigation efforts before and after construction?
What key metrics should CDFIs use to effectively measure the impact of decarbonization and mitigation efforts in multifamily, single-family, and community facilities projects before and after construction?
Decarbonization
New Construction
What are some technical considerations a building owner/developer should think about when electrifying a central domestic hot water system in a multifamily building?
What are some technical considerations a building owner/developer should think about when electrifying a central domestic hot water (DHW) system in a multifamily building (mid-high rise, walk-ups, courtyard)?
Domestic Hot Water
How can CDFIs leverage key metrics to support funding requests and assess impacts during the underwriting process?
How can CDFIs leverage key metrics to support funding requests and assess the impact of projects during the underwriting process?
Funding and Financing
What are the major considerations when implementing Variable Refrigerant Flow systems in multifamily properties?
What are the major considerations I should take into account when implementing VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems in multifamily properties?
Energy Efficiency
Heating and Cooling