Duke Energy Florida has introduced a new incentive program for multifamily builders who meet ENERGY STAR certification standards. Builders can receive a $500 rebate per individually metered unit that achieves the ENERGY STAR requirements through Duke Energy Florida’s program, in addition to a $500 federal tax credit available from ENERGY STAR.
To participate, builders must submit an intake form for the Energy Star Homes Programs, register as a Duke Energy Trade Ally, complete the required ENERGY STAR certification with verification, and provide proof of certification for each unit to receive payment. The program is open to developers of condos, apartments, duplexes, and townhomes.
The first builder to take part in the program is Beazer Homes. The company is developing two townhome communities in Oviedo—Aulin Square and Towns at Greenleaf—which will offer 85 ENERGY STAR-certified homes in central Florida.
Melissa Seixas, state president of Duke Energy Florida, said: “Multifamily new construction is increasing drastically in many of Duke Energy Florida’s service areas. By focusing on builder incentives in this area of high growth, we can also help customers save on their monthly energy bills when they purchase or rent an ENERGY STAR certified unit.”
Steve Cervino, area president for Beazer Homes, added: “Utility costs are a critical piece of the equation for housing affordability, but that is just the start of benefits for customers. We’re proud to build above and beyond ENERGY STAR standards so homeowners can experience healthier, more quiet, and more comfortable living spaces.”
According to Duke Energy Florida, homes and apartments with ENERGY STAR certification are at least 10% more energy efficient than those built only to code and achieve an average improvement of 20%.
Duke Energy Florida serves approximately 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile area in Florida. Its parent company Duke Energy provides electric utilities service to over 8 million customers across six states and owns nearly 55 gigawatts of energy capacity nationwide.
More information about the incentive program is available on Duke Energy’s website.
