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

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

2. 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 Housing Virginia’s Study

3. 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

4. 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

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

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

7. Findings: Behavioral Survey Resident survey reveals that additional savingscould be achieved with improved education/incentive programs

8. 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)

9. Next Steps: Resident Education Conducting resident education experimental design study using traditional & alternative methods • 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

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

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

12. www.housingvirginia.org admin@housingvirginia.org