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Today the State of California is putting finishing touches on a statewide green building code, effective next January. California plans to levy fees based on greenhouse emissions, rather than wait around to see what Uncle Sam’s doing to impact climate change.
There’s been plenty of buzzing about homeowners and what’s expected of them. If we decrease our energy consumption, then families should expect tax breaks or dividend checks worth up to $1,000 – pretty sweet!
The Economic and Allocation Advisory Committee, a 16-person state panel, is behind all these conservation plans. Unfortunately, there’s a political problem because their recommended green standards aren’t, well, standard. And there’s a two-tiered approach that’s a bit confusing right now.
Meanwhile a more stringent and generally-accepted set of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (aka LEED) standards are already followed by builders and contractors these days. Some 50 California cities and jurisdictions already comply with these standards, too.
The new statewide code won’t meet these LEED requirements. It’s no surprise that protests have already begun, with all the national green and environmental groups delivering a letter to Sacramento. We are pleased with any progress, but ignoring the accepted standards is a head-scratcher!
More info: USA Today - LA Times - The WSJ - SF Chronicle – Twitter Search Results
January 14th Update: As expected, California’s green-building code was approved on Wednesday. This first-in-the nation standard goes live next year – and is an important progress point.
Yes, you can get some money back when you make green-home improvements. We’re going to plow through all the possibilities from Uncle Sam, starting with this $1,500 tax credit.
How does this credit work? If you buy and install certain energy-saving products in your existing home, then our feds will credit up to 30% or $1,500 (max) between now and December 31, 2010. You’ll need to complete this Form 5695, when you file your taxes.
There are many upgrades that you might consider making next year. However, it’s not quite as simple as showing up somewhere and buying products that have an “Energy Star” sticker. You should investigate the fine print, too.
So we’ll ease the way, by copying and linking ALL the product details for you:
You have another 12 months to get going here, but it’s never too soon to start clicking, reading and planning ahead. Hey, ”greening up” might even be your achievable New Year’s resolution.
Have you ever checked out Houzz.com?
This addictive site is a great resource for architecture and building ideas – find local professionals here, and also use the site to get great ideas on green design for homes.
Here’s something you probably didn’t consider before, but your finish treatments and furnishings can be greener and cleaner if you think organic. And they won’t break the bank, either.
According to San Franciscan Jennifer Jones:
Your flooring, window treatments, pillows, bedding, or furniture can all be made from nature’s goodies. Using natural materials that are rapidly renewable, sustainably harvested, or made from organic fabrics will insure that less toxic chemicals and indoor air pollutants enter your home. Reclaimed wood, cotton, linen, jute, hemp, sisal are just some of the materials available today.
Hhhmmm, and we thought those sisal rugs were just cool. Here’s an excuse to finally buy a few of them.
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