Governor Signs Legislation to Promote Green Home Building

State grants encourage homes to 'go green' when building and renovating, benefiting both the environment and economy. This is first time such programs are extended to homes.

November 5, 2008

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster, Dutchess), Chair of the Assembly Energy Committee, announced that Governor David Paterson signed legislation to encourage the construction of new homes and the renovation of existing homes to meet "green building" standards.

The bill (A.10684), sponsored by Mr. Cahill, creates financial incentives to state residents who agree to "go green" when building new homes or renovating existing homes. The program will be administered through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA.)

"In these tough economic times, this is exactly the type of forward thinking investment the state must make," said Assemblymember Cahill. "One of the quickest and most effective ways we can cut back on energy costs and globe changing pollution is to rethink the way we build and renovate our homes. I am pleased that the Governor has joined us with a strong commitment to this issue."

Under the new program builders and homeowners can take advantage of these incentives to reduce energy and greenhouse gas production while also preserving natural resources. They can also lower material costs, reduce waste, improve indoor air quality, and reduce indoor and outdoor pollution.

"One of the most effective ways we can immediately cut back on energy costs and carbon emissions is by rethinking the way we build and renovate our homes," said Mr. Cahill. "Sustainable green building practices are no longer a luxury; they are a necessity for our economic, environmental and energy security. The program will give homeowners and builders the incentives to make green buildings the standard going forward."

The amount of the grants will be based on a number of considerations, including the size and type of the residential structure. New York law currently has an incentive program in place to promote green buildings for commercial use, but this is the first initiative designated to bring incentives to homes.

NYSERDA will adopt rules and regulations in consultation with state agencies. They will develop standards and criteria for eligibility, application procedures, awards and award levels, inspection procedures, documentation and compliance requirements, and training and qualification procedures for builders and technicians.

This is one of a number of significant energy initiatives advanced by Assemblyman Cahill to reduce New York's dependency on foreign oil and to clean up the environment.

What's New