Listen to this articleDevelopers of new homes across the state are now eligible for $10 million in energy-efficiency incentives.
The money, from the Building Better Homes– Zero Emission Homes for Healthier Communities program incentivizes the design, construction and marketing of new clean and resilient single-family homes and townhomes and provides training and technical support to builders and developers, according to a statement from Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office.
The program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and funded by the state’s Clean Energy Fund, provides funding on a first-come, first-served basis to builders and developers that commit to designing, constructing and growing market awareness and demand for new zero emission single-family homes and townhomes.
The base incentive per home is up to $7,000 and up to $4,000 for townhomes. Homes located in disadvantaged communities, as defined by the Climate Justice Working Group, will be eligible for the higher incentive amount with an additional $1,000 offered per project in those areas. Funding is also available for training contractors to help incorporate energy-efficiency standards into new homes.
Projects must meet performance requirements and third-party certification criteria that address clean energy, above-code energy efficiency, and resiliency, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems that remain operable during power outages or include backup power sources that can be used in the event of a power outage, according to the statement.
“New homes built to the latest clean energy and efficiency standards will ensure greener, healthier housing is available to all New Yorkers while helping pave the way toward a more sustainable future,” Hochul said in the statement. “This investment is another part of the state’s comprehensive strategy to transform the new construction market, curb emissions, and ensure fewer homes and buildings rely on fossil fuels.”
Applications for a single home, townhome or multiple homes and townhomes within a housing subdivision will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2025, or until funds have been exhausted.
“Bringing builders and developers resources to advance zero-emission new construction is at the heart of Governor Hochul’s commitment to build homes that are healthy, comfortable, and maximize consumer control over energy use,” NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen Harris said in the statement. “This program continues NYSERDA’s long history of working with the market to bring the latest in energy and efficiency measures to more New Yorkers.”