If you or someone you know in the Eugene area is thinking of building a new home, there are some informative websites that explain the steps for getting tax breaks, incentives, and other benefits for building green.  Visit the City of Eugene’s page here to get started on your research.  The new expanded Green Building Incentive Program that the City of Eugene has implemented is a great service and support for going green.  They offer free consultation, reduced fees and costs, one day permit, priority inspections, and recognition with publicity.  You will not feel alone or confused when working with the City of Eugene to build your new sustainable home.  Be sure to contact Jenna with the City of Eugene at (541) 682-5541 as soon as possible if you choose to take part in the Green Building Incentive Program.

You should then contact either Gary Harlan or Steve Stewart, the Residential Energy Management Specialists, at EWEB by calling (541) 484-1125.  Also visit EWEB’s site here for more information on their incentives. 

There are 2  ways to receive certification for your home: LEED or Earth Advantage.     Visit the LEED site here for information on certification through the USGBC’s LEED for Homes program.  Also take a look at the Earth Advantage site here for more information on their certification process. 

If trying for higher efficiency and more incentives also visit the Oregon Department of Energy site here for information on the High Performance Home requirements and benefits.

As mentioned in the previous blog post, we were very excited to be involved with a project that would include a renewable energy source.  Unfortunately, after an on-site inspection by a representative of Advanced Energy Systems, the new home location for Lee Pettigrew would not have sufficient exposure for a solar hot water system.  There are too many trees blocking the sun.  The owner was disappointed about the news but was still anxious to continue with her new sustainable home. 

Ms. Pettigrew will shoot for an Earth Advantage rating.  This process is most effective when there is coordination between the client, contractor, designer, EWEB, and the City of Eugene.  As early as possible, there should be a meeting to determine what credits or points the client would like to attempt to achieve.  This saves time and money when included in the design upfront and not changing the designs and/or directions later in the project.  

The solar incentives mentioned in the last blog posting are available for new and existing homes wanting to incorporate solar energy.  You can visit the DSIRE website for more information.

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