HUD Launches Energy Efficiency Rehab Advisor

The Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of Policy Development & Research (PD&R) recently launched the Energy Efficient Rehab Advisor, a Web-based tool designed to help homeowners, contractors, architects, housing authorities, development agencies, facility managers, and others to improve energy efficiency in existing residences during renovation and remodeling.

In six clicks, the Advisor provides recommendations for cost-effectively increasing the energy efficiency of a typical renovation project in single-family or multifamily housing. These recommendations are based on the building type, location, and specific project — and they're free.

This is the simplest tool available for estimating the costs and savings of incorporating cost-effective energy efficiency improvements into remodeling projects. The user need not perform any computer modeling or calculating, and unlike other user-friendly tools, the Advisor is also capable of addressing the costs and savings available for multifamily housing.

The information contained in the Advisor updates the 1996 PD&R publications: "Guidebook for Optimizing Utility Consumption in Existing One-to-Four Family Dwellings" and "Guidebook for Optimizing Utility Consumption in Existing Multifamily Dwellings." HUD developed the Advisor in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The energy efficiency recommendations are based on ENERGY STAR specifications, where applicable.

"Improving housing affordability is a key component of HUD's mission. The Energy Efficient Rehab Advisor represents one way HUD can help identify energy efficiency improvements and pinpoint cost savings for any housing project," said Mike Blanford, a research engineer with the Office of Policy Development and Research who managed development of the Advisor.

During a recent 'road test', Bob Paquin, Director of Boston's Office of Community Planning and Development noted, "The Advisor sets a new standard for 'user-friendly.' It offers easy access to a complex subject. This tool is comprehensive, efficient and informative."

Incorporating energy-efficiency measures during housing rehab creates numerous benefits for owners and occupants, including lower energy bills, increased comfort, and a quieter, healthier indoor environment. HUD recommends following the Advisor's guidelines when undertaking any type of renovation project in single- and multifamily dwellings, whether it's privately owned or in a public housing context.

Visit the Energy Efficient Rehab Advisor site to learn more.

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