On June 13, Senator Bob Smith (R-NH) introduced the Energy Efficient Buildings Incentive Act (S.2718) to Congress. The bill would provide tax deductions for residential and commercial energy efficiency improvements: whole-building performance, PV systems, certified solar hot water systems, and high-performance water heaters, heat pumps, and central air conditioners. The proposed maximum deduction is $2.25 per square foot for commercial buildings, $2000 for principle residences that are 50% more energy efficient than the standard, and $500-$6000 for specific equipment.
What makes this bill more compelling than other building efficiency legislation is its level of specificity and emphasis on building and equipment performance. It sets the stage for competition among suppliers of energy efficient equipment. Requiring third party certification for equipment and building performance will encourage market development of these service industries, which have long suffered from a lack of critical mass. It sets government-approved methods for estimating energy costs and savings and as well as methods to incorporate this value into property assessments.
The standard for certification of solar hot water systems will come from the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation; for PV systems, the bill cites two ASTM standards. The Department of Energy will be required to set standards for whole-building performance, including computing software used, and requirements for third-party certifiers. It specifies strategies that are usually not taken into account when calculating energy savings, such as natural ventilation and daylighting.
Interestingly, Senator Smith received a 0 rating from the League of Conservation Voters in 1998 and 1999. The bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee. Discussions are progressing with members of the House to produce a companion bill.
Summary and full text: Florida Green Building Coalition: http://floridagreenbuilding.org/s2718
FROM
Environmental Building News
Loading...