A new study shows that a $6,000 investment in simple energy efficiency upgrades creates a $12,000 return over 25 years. The study by Columbia Institute of homes in Canada, also shows that homeowners who have access to programs with a one-two punch benefit the most. Successful programs highlight:
- the right path for improvements, and
- offer attractive financing options to cover out-of-pocket up-front expenses.
This is a good sign for the BetterBuildings program in the US. There are over 40 programs nationally, most offering a residential package. BetterBuildings requires a third key element in addition to info on the best path forward and financing – access to a quality workforce that can actually deliver energy reduction and health improvement results homeowners are after.
October, 2011 is a huge milestone for the 40+ communities participating in the BetterBuildings program. Basically, that’s the deadlines for programs to be on the street and available to home owners. Check the BetterBuildings map to find out if there is a program in your area, or the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR map which offers a similar one-stop shop approach.
and get going after your own $12K ROI!