Duke Energy Florida has introduced a new incentive program aimed at encouraging multifamily builders to construct ENERGY STAR-certified units. Builders are now eligible for a $500 rebate per individually metered unit that meets ENERGY STAR standards through Duke Energy Florida, in addition to a $500 tax credit from ENERGY STAR.
To qualify for the rebate, builders must submit an intake form for the Energy Star Homes Programs, register as a Duke Energy Trade Ally, complete the ENERGY STAR certification requirements with verification, and provide proof of certification for each unit.
The program targets new construction of condos, apartments, duplexes, and townhomes. According to Duke Energy Florida, homes and apartments with ENERGY STAR certification are at least 10% more energy efficient than those built to code and achieve an average improvement of 20%.
Beazer Homes is the first builder to participate in this initiative. The company is developing two townhome communities—Aulin Square and Towns at Greenleaf—in Oviedo, Florida. These projects will offer a total of 85 ENERGY STAR-certified homes in central Florida.
“Multifamily new construction is increasing drastically in many of Duke Energy Florida’s service areas,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “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.”
“Utility costs are a critical piece of the equation for housing affordability, but that is just the start of benefits for customers,” says Steve Cervino, Beazer Homes area president. “We’re proud to build above and beyond ENERGY STAR standards so homeowners can experience healthier, more quiet, and more comfortable living spaces.”
Duke Energy Florida supplies electricity to approximately 2 million customers across a 13,000-square-mile area in the state. Its parent company, Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), serves 8.4 million electric utility customers across several states and owns significant energy capacity nationwide.
More information about Duke Energy can be found on its website (https://www.duke-energy.com/) or through its news center (https://news.duke-energy.com/).
For additional details or enrollment information regarding the incentive program for qualifying multifamily new construction builders, interested parties are encouraged to visit Duke Energy’s resources.
