The Effects of Energy Efficient Design and Construction on LIHTC Housing in Virginia

Housing Virginia’s Study Partners: Virginia Tech Center for Housing Research and EarthCraft Virginia Collected utility usage data & behavior surveys 15 LIHTC apartment communities (family & senior, new construction & rehab) throughout Virginia

Energy Costs The cost of residential electricity for the consumer (resident) has risen by 31% in Virginia since 2001 U.S Energy Information Administration, Electricity Data Browser, 2015

Energy Costs Energy cost burden (percentage of housing cost going to energy ) for median income household = 13% Energy cost burden for low-income household = 25% or more Of the energy consumed, over 40% of the cost goes to space heating and air conditioning

Findings: Energy Savings Average tenant saved 464 kWh per month = $54 per month ($648/year) *For the State of Virginia

Findings: Energy Savings Apartments in the study: Use 40% less energy than housing built to existing code requirements Performed 17% better than forecast in the model

Findings: Behavioral Survey Resident survey reveals that additional savings could be achieved with improved education/incentive programs

Findings: Behavioral Survey Most residents hand-washed dishes and kept windows open during most of the year The majority of residents reported not receiving adequate education on the energy efficiency technologies in their units Thermostat settings: 72-75°(winter) 68-72°(summer)

Conducting resident education experimental design study using traditional & alternative methods Next Steps: Resident Education Traditional approach = Testing the effectiveness of several different direct resident education models In-home, one-on-one education Group classes Video / other virtual educational modalities Traditional approach = Testing the effectiveness of several different direct resident education models In-home, one-on-one education Group classes Video / other virtual educational modalities Alternative approach = innovative energy saving incentives In-home devices (that monitor and help manage energy consumption) Providing energy savings “up front” Competitions for “lowest bill” or “most improved” among residents Alternative approach = innovative energy saving incentives In-home devices (that monitor and help manage energy consumption) Providing energy savings “up front” Competitions for “lowest bill” or “most improved” among residents

Cost-benefit analysis of green vs. non-green developments in Virginia Next Steps: Cost-Benefit Analysis Cost of EE features Savings from EE features

Expansion of current study over volume & time + Implementation of VHDA-required utility release program Next Steps: Expanded Scope