On June 6, 2014, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) announced the availability of significantly higher incentives under its Low-rise Residential New Construction Program including first incentives for homes designed for net zero energy performance. Builders can avail $2,000-$8,000 per unit under three performance tiers, with the highest amount for net zero homes. Recognizing builders’ ongoing efforts to adopt net zero standards, NYSERDA expects higher incentives to accelerate the adoption in the new residential construction sector. NYSERDA also noted that builders’ efforts are educating home buyers by demonstrating that net zero performance is within reach.
Under the Low-rise Residential New Construction Program, a net zero energy home produces sufficient energy to supply its needs annually. Annualized performance calculation of a net zero home considers seasonal climatic factors, including outdoor temperature variances and solar energy availability. Features and techniques used to achieve net zero standards include solar photovoltaic electricity generating systems, solar thermal systems, integrated designs to maximize benefits of solar heat gains, higher performance building elements, higher efficiency heating and cooling systems, advanced lighting designs, and higher efficiency appliances.
The program also supports construction and purchase of New York ENERGY STAR Certified Homes, which serves as the basis to achieve its net-zero goal. Single-family homes, townhouses, and low-rise residential buildings constructed under the program are designed to use less energy than conventionally-built homes, offering recurring savings and increased value to buyers. They incorporate proven technologies and advanced building practices and are tested by certified home energy raters to ensure energy efficiency. To date, NYSERDA has facilitated construction of more than 25,000 energy efficient homes, providing technical support and financial incentives that reflect increasing efficiency standards.
Originally Published on June 6, 2014
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