Topic Overview

Energy efficiency techniques such as weather-stripping, insulation, energy efficient windows, or properly maintained heating systems are less likely to exist in units occupied by low-income families than those occupied by higher income families. By developing programs to improve energy efficiency in lower income housing, grantees at a moderate cost can improve the efficiency of homes while reducing the high cost to owners and tenants, which results from energy waste.

Rehabilitation programs are most successful when energy efficiency is a key component. Rehabilitation in conjunction with energy efficiency provides grantees and their clients a "bigger bang for their buck". Energy efficiency can improve indoor air quality, lowers utility bills, and uses higher quality equipment. It also produces a more comfortable home, extends the life of the home, and may result in a higher resale value of the home.

This topic will cover the benefits of incorporating energy efficiency into a rehabilitation program.

Specifically, after completing this topic, you will be able to:

• Explain why increasing energy efficiency is important in rehabilitation projects.
• List the reasons why PJs would want to increase energy efficiency in their projects.
• Identify the benefits to PJs of collaborating with conservation agencies.
• Identify the benefits for Residents (homeowners/occupants).

This topic will cover the following subjects:

1. Benefits to Residents: Energy efficiency produces a more comfortable home, reduces energy bills and the increases the cost effectiveness of a unit. In addition, it has been shown to benefit the health of residents and may increase the market value and life of a home.
   
   
2. Benefits to Grantees and Weatherization Agency Collaboration. Through collaboration, grantees and weatherization agencies can benefit from each others areas of expertise and funding resources as well as assist the U.S. Department of HUD and consumers by expanding their pool of resources.