Government programs that subsidize energy-efficiency improvements in houses are being reconsidered as some claim the effort isn't worth the benefit.
"The federal grants range from a major portion of the upgrade - $600 for an $1,800 insulation job, for example - to a far more modest percentage - $30 per window for a project that can cost $20,000. Most provinces also provide grants; Ontario matches the federal benefit dollar-for-dollar, resulting in a $1,200 grant for that $1,800 insulation job."
"Providers of audit services say business is booming across the country, and they are constantly training new auditors to keep up with the demand."
"But is the effort worth it, for the climate or for homeowners?"
"Energy experts level two main criticisms at this type of program. Some say the government is paying for upgrades that individuals would have done without a grant, and that homeowners are encouraged to spend thousands of dollars for a modest payoff in terms of lower energy bills."
Read the full story: This drafty old house
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Data reveals that NYC’s bet on congestion pricing has paid off
After almost two years of the program, reports show positive impacts on traffic and air quality and no disruptions to parking.
HUD modernizes 50-year-old manufactured housing framework
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Chicago city vehicles are on the hunt for illegally-parked cars
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Small single-family homes are illegal in most of MA. Voters can change that
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Public steps inside U.S.’s first battery-powered train
Metra’s groundbreaking train feature modern seats and a futuristic battery car.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
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Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
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One Hundred Miles
County of Mendocino
planning NEXT
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
Montrose County
Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA)
The Pocatello Development Authority