Fannie Mae’s new report on energy usage in the multifamily sector found that affordable properties use 28% less energy per unit and are 29% smaller than market-rate properties. Market-rate units incur higher energy cost and use per square foot because there are more units per 1,000 square feet among affordable properties—1.29 affordable units, versus 0.91 market rate units per 1,000 sf.
The report, “Transforming Multifamily Housing: Fannie Mae’s Green Initiative and Energy Star for Multifamily,” provides comprehensive multifamily energy and water data. The first of its kind report serves as the basis for the EPA’s Energy Star Score for multifamily structures.
Costs differentials on energy use can be very steep for multifamily properties. The least efficient property could spend as much as $165,000 more in annual energy costs than a similar property operating at peak efficiently. When owners paid for all energy costs, median annual energy use was 26% higher than when tenants were responsible for paying energy costs.
In a related development, the EPA made its Energy Star score available for the multifamily sector on September 16. According to Fannie Mae, the score will enable owners and operators of multifamily properties with 20 or more units to quantify the energy performance of their properties.
(http://www.multihousingnews.com/news/fannie-mae-releases-major-study-on-multifamily-energy-use)
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 20, 2021
Tension rises in California over state’s push to build more housing
Attorney general hints at lawsuits against cities that don’t comply with zoning reform.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2021
Tension rises in California over state’s push to build more housing
Attorney general hints at lawsuits against cities that don’t comply with zoning reform.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Home builders defeat proposed Oklahoma energy conservation code upgrade
Builders cite high home prices for opposition.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Laws and regulations complicate growth of community solar gardens
New projects stymied by utility resistance and legislative restrictions.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2021
Property owners need systematic approach to GHG emissions reduction
Energy hog buildings at risk for becoming stranded assets.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2021
Design problems now the primary cause of construction claims and disputes
More likely to occur due to more tight timescales imposed upon third parties engaged in design.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2021
ABC releases guide to technology for improving safety performance
Provides details on how to identify, choose, and implement technology.
Codes and Standards | Dec 8, 2021
Construction industry is the top target for cyberattacks
Smart building tech is a new avenue for criminals.
Codes and Standards | Dec 8, 2021
Proposals to add more multifamily to Atlanta prompt drive for Buckhead to secede
City aims to increase housing as projections point to sharp population increase.
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2021
Design problems now the primary cause of construction claims and disputes
More likely to occur due to more tight timescales imposed upon third parties engaged in design.
