Multifamily Affordable Housing Energy Retrofit Strategy for Richmond, CA

Abstract

Weatherization, energy efficiency, and electrification upgrades, which combined can be called energy retrofits, can reduce energy burden, provide health improvements through improved indoor air quality and increased comfort in the home, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This study explores how the City of Richmond, CA can incentivize weatherization, energy efficiency, and electrification upgrades as well as solar installation in multifamily affordable housing developments to provide these benefits to low-income residents in the City. Through interviews with energy program administrators, affordable housing providers, community-based organizations, and government agencies, this study identifies the key motivations, opportunities, and challenges of completing multifamily affordable housing energy retrofits in Richmond, CA. In addition, a comprehensive review of existing and upcoming federal, state, and local energy retrofit funding and resources was completed. Based on building permit data and utility payment structure and appliance fuel source survey data from buildings, existing affordable housing developments that are good candidates for electrification and solar installation in Richmond were identified. Utilizing interview findings, literature review, funding information, and building stock analysis, recommendations were created for the City of Richmond of short, medium, and long term programs that could be implemented to increase multifamily affordable housing energy retrofits, with staff capacity, funding requirements, and implementation timeline information included.