Historically, energy efficiency programs have not served the multifamily sector very well. Property owners, investors and operators are already facing many competing priorities for their time and resources – and energy efficiency rarely makes that list.

A big reason for this can be traced back to how difficult it can be to successfully navigate energy efficiency’s practical application or the financial requirements for necessary upgrades. And energy providers have equally struggled to convey the tangible benefits of energy efficiency upgrades that can include not just a reduction in energy consumption and costs, but also reduced service and maintenance costs, improved tenant satisfaction and longevity, and healthier indoor environments.

Rising expenses (energy at 3.5% per year or more) and deferred maintenance costs (old systems and “band-aid” repairs) are threatening multifamily properties of all sizes nationwide… robbing them of the money needed to make capital improvements and maintain infrastructure.

♦  Multifamily housing could be as much as 30 percent more energy-efficient, resulting in $3.4 billion in annual savings (Source: Institute for Market Transformation).

♦  As much as 46% of the water consumed by the average multifamily property is used just for toilets (Source:  U.S. Department of Energy).

♦  Facing tight budgets, the ability for multifamily property owners/operators to fund upgrades and maintenance has been constricted, contributing to the accelerating deterioration of their HVAC systems.  Deferred maintenance and decisions to choose less expensive temporary fixes vs. upgrades are ultimately costing these owners/operators more money now and a LOT more long-term.