HUD Expands Sustainability Effort with $100 Million Investment

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Aug. 19 that 100 affordable housing developments, including 8,112 homes, have been awarded more than $100 million to complete energy efficient renovations.

As part of HUD’s Green Retrofit Program for Multifamily Housing, which was created through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the awards will generate upgrades to thousands of affordable apartments, create jobs and save money for thousands of residents. HUD said the awards will create an average energy savings of $33,000 per property with tenants saving $250 each on utility bills annually.

“I am proud to announce this significant Recovery Act milestone because it is an example of HUD’s ongoing commitment to creating jobs while also building sustainable homes and communities,” HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan said in a news release.

Overall, HUD will award $250 million nationally to reduce energy costs, cut water consumption and improve indoor air quality through the Green Retrofit Program. Funds are awarded to owners of HUD-assisted housing projects and can be used for a wide range of retrofit renovations. HUD will continue to issue awards through Sept. 30. To learn more about HUD’s Green Retrofit Program, visit http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/recovery/about.