What is the anticipated cost of implementing a more stringent energy code?
Initial adoption of a higher performance standard for buildings is likely to result in slightly higher first costs for construction, estimated to be approximately $2 to $3 per square foot for a typical single family home, or about 1% to 2% of the selling price of the home and in the 1% to 3% range for commercial buildings. However, after energy cost savings on heating and electricity are included these higher performance standards save money. In addition, there are financial incentives available from the federal government and electric and gas utilities in the state provide financial incentives that further reduce the upfront costs of high performance buildings, and allow for faster returns on the investment in energy saving measures.
