Elevating Affordable Housing on the Path to Decarbonization
The IRA presents an immense opportunity, but delivering those resources where they are most needed is no easy task given systemic barriers that often prevent low-income and communities of color from applying for and adopting green energy opportunities. In this blog post, Decarbonization Fellow Kiera Quigley explores why new funds and programs "must center the needs and voices of environmental justice communities, or threaten to leave them behind."
From Roadmaps to Software: Tools to Help Leverage the IRA
Multifamily housing accounts for 20% of greenhouse gases. That makes taking advantage of unprecedented incentives and funding via the Inflation Reduction Act critical. This blog post previews new tools from Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF) and Cadence OneFive to help the affordable housing sector unlock the potential of this landmark investment in affordable housing and energy efficiency.
Solar Success: How the IRA Will Help Community Solar Gardens Power Affordable Housing
For low- to moderate-income residents in multifamily housing who do not have access to a roof, do not own their property, or live in shaded areas, community solar creates an opportunity to access renewable energy and lower utility costs. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) presents an extraordinary moment to invigorate this growing area of solar while prioritizing communities with the greatest need. This blog post explores the opportunity presented by community solar and strategies for increasing residents' access to the benefits of solar power.
Decarbonizing Multifamily Housing: How State Finance Agencies Are Gearing Up for the IRA
As the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) rolls out, housing agencies around the country are preparing to deploy additional funds, incentivizing developers to incorporate green designs, and boosting cooperation with state energy offices. This blog post reviews how several state housing agencies are preparing to help the multifamily sector realize the benefits of the IRA.
Green bank' partnerships center affordable housing in climate action
Writing in ImpactAlpha, HPN President and CEO Robin Huges explores the question: “What could we achieve if the affordable housing sector was at the forefront of climate solutions in the United States?”
Millions in HUD Funding Still Available Through GRRP
This article is an overview of HUD's Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP). It was developed with help from National Housing Trust (NHT) and Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF). GRRP, a $1B IRA program, has issued $1M in awards but the program has seen lower application volume than expected to date, leaving more resources still available for applicable projects. The article recommends that developers assess their portfolios for eligible HUD subsidized properties, so these resources are not left on the table. It also includes information on changes to make it easier for housing owners to incorporate funding into their projects.
Clean Energy 101: Geothermal Heat Pumps
Geothermal heat pumps offer highly efficient heating and cooling without fossil fuels. They are especially valuable in supplying heating on extremely cold days and support heating electrification with only modest impacts on electric grids. These heat pumps are widely applicable from single family homes to large properties, or even networked systems providing heating and cooling to entire neighborhoods. The blog article highlights the characteristics of this technology and new opportunities for greater adoption.
A Blueprint to Decarbonize Affordable Housing (Boston)
This case study showcases Allston Brighton CDC’s approach to decarbonizing multiple properties through deep energy retrofits. This nonprofit affordable housing owner in Boston has emerged as a champion of building decarbonization. They are poised to cut energy consumption by an impressive average of 55% across 103 residential units. What’s more, their team members have offered a one-page guide for similar building owners and projects on how to pursue various funding sources for retrofit success.
How to Upgrade and Electrify Millions of US Homes and Buildings
The White House and Department of Energy (DOE) recently laid the foundation for two monumental home energy upgrade initiatives: the Home Efficiency Rebates program, which offers up to $8,000 to households, and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program, which provides up to $14,000. These rebate programs — made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act — represent one of the largest-ever federal investments to decarbonize the US building stock and help Americans pay for home efficiency improvements such as better insulation, all-electric heat pumps, and induction stoves.
Advancing Equity Through the Inflation Reduction Act: Lessons Learned from the EEFA
This blog post explores the practical lessons from the Energy Efficiency for All (EEFA) initiative, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in fair energy investments for affordable housing. Learn from a decade of experience, addressing challenges and celebrating achievements. Understand how to prioritize equity in future initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, supporting marginalized communities and promoting energy efficiency and climate resilience.