This website contains information and links for existing multifamily programs, technical resources and case studies.

Local programs and resources are currently available to help multifamily property owners upgrade their buildings:

Multifamily residential buildings can be upgraded to yield significant energy savings and improved quality of life for residents. However, the complexity of the multifamily sector as compared to the single family sector requires a different approach. This webpage provides a toolkit of technical and financial resources to assist property owners and managers who pursue energy efficiency and green upgrades to their buildings.

Benefits of Energy Efficient and Green Multifamily Buildings

Buildings built or upgraded to be “green” typically have low utility usage and costs, durable construction materials and installation, and occupant comfort and healthy indoor air quality. This benefits the property owners by reducing future operating and maintenance costs, creating additional market value at time of sale or rental, and enhancing public image for property owners and managers. To learn more about the benefits of green building, visit www.builditgreen.org.

Now existing multifamily buildings are eligible to receive third-party green building certification. Through Build It Green’s GreenPoint Rated Existing Home Multifamily system, existing properties can receive recognition for major rehabs as well as partial green upgrades to their properties. Click here to download the program flier (PDF).

Incentives and Financing

Financial and other incentives are available through multiple sources. A navigational tool is currently in development, and expected to be released in late 2011. The navigational tool will assist property owners in finding the best programs for their properties, as well as identify sources of financing and track the progress of green upgrades across time to the portfolio of their properties. To receive an update when the navigational tool is available, write an email to multifamily@stopwaste.org.

Matrix of Utility Programs:

The utilities provide rebates and incentives for specific equipment upgrades and weatherization. The California Public Utilities Commission has compiled a list of the multifamily incentives. CPUC Matrix.

The Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs) may each launch new multifamily energy efficiency programs in the coming year. This page will be updated as program information is released.

Multifamily Affordable Housing Programs

Bay Area Multifamily Retrofit Loan Fund – offered by Enterprise Community Partners, Low Income Investment Fund, and San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing, is a low interest, preferentially termed loan product.

California Debt Limit Allocation Committee – list of utility energy efficiency and solar incentive programs available to affordable housing.

Local Initiative Support Corporation – supports initiatives that promote sustainable communities.

National Housing Trust – works on “preserving and improving” affordable housing to ensure that privately owned rental housing remains in affordable housing stock and is sustainable over time.

Tax Credit Allocation Committee – new funding criteria that encourage green building in affordable housing.

U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD)  - Green Retrofit Program and green property needs assessment (Green PNA).