Advance Energy Efficiency Standards and Incentives in Iowa Affordable Housing Projects

The Issue

The Linn Clean Energy District (LCED) is deeply committed to fostering a sustainable energy future for our community and beyond, focusing on sustainability, equity, collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. We work tirelessly to empower communities to transition to renewable energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy efficiency.

The Iowa Finance Authority is in charge of selecting which affordable housing projects in Iowa receive funding through their Qualified Allocation Plan. The Iowa Finance Authority develops the QAP considering housing needs, market conditions, and policy goals, with stakeholder input. Let's prioritize energy efficiency in affordable housing by supporting Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP) Revisions. We need stronger policies in place that reflect our commitment.


Specifically:

1) Require ASHRAE-standard energy assessments for rehabilitation projects.
2) Provide scoring incentives for green building certifications to improve affordability.
3) Mandate electrification-ready designs for new construction projects.
4) Create incentives for on-site and community solar/renewables.
5) Align the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) with IRA tax credits for energy-efficient projects.
6) Prioritize sustainability in the Innovation Set Aside project.

These measures are not only crucial steps towards a more sustainable future but also have economic benefits. According to the U.S Department of Energy's 2020 U.S Energy Employment Report, clean energy jobs grew 10.4% from 2015-2019 while fossil fuel jobs declined by 0.8%. Furthermore, studies show that every dollar invested in renewable power generates $3-$8 in benefits.

By implementing these changes at the state level here in Iowa we can lead by example nationally while ensuring our local communities reap the benefits of cleaner air quality and increased job opportunities within the green sector.

Join me today by signing this petition as we call upon our local government officials to implement these necessary changes towards a more sustainable future!

Read the full Qualified Allocation Plan Recommendation Letter here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wexbrtaIoWPXxmR_FgBd0tzR8jU3aI4d/view

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The Issue

The Linn Clean Energy District (LCED) is deeply committed to fostering a sustainable energy future for our community and beyond, focusing on sustainability, equity, collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. We work tirelessly to empower communities to transition to renewable energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy efficiency.

The Iowa Finance Authority is in charge of selecting which affordable housing projects in Iowa receive funding through their Qualified Allocation Plan. The Iowa Finance Authority develops the QAP considering housing needs, market conditions, and policy goals, with stakeholder input. Let's prioritize energy efficiency in affordable housing by supporting Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP) Revisions. We need stronger policies in place that reflect our commitment.


Specifically:

1) Require ASHRAE-standard energy assessments for rehabilitation projects.
2) Provide scoring incentives for green building certifications to improve affordability.
3) Mandate electrification-ready designs for new construction projects.
4) Create incentives for on-site and community solar/renewables.
5) Align the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) with IRA tax credits for energy-efficient projects.
6) Prioritize sustainability in the Innovation Set Aside project.

These measures are not only crucial steps towards a more sustainable future but also have economic benefits. According to the U.S Department of Energy's 2020 U.S Energy Employment Report, clean energy jobs grew 10.4% from 2015-2019 while fossil fuel jobs declined by 0.8%. Furthermore, studies show that every dollar invested in renewable power generates $3-$8 in benefits.

By implementing these changes at the state level here in Iowa we can lead by example nationally while ensuring our local communities reap the benefits of cleaner air quality and increased job opportunities within the green sector.

Join me today by signing this petition as we call upon our local government officials to implement these necessary changes towards a more sustainable future!

Read the full Qualified Allocation Plan Recommendation Letter here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wexbrtaIoWPXxmR_FgBd0tzR8jU3aI4d/view

The Decision Makers

Iowa Finance Authority
Iowa Finance Authority

Petition Updates