The Green Cottages utilize the latest in green building techniques to sharply reduce energy consumption and minimize the homes' impact on the environment.
The Green Cottages will be the first affordable single family homes in Northeast Ohio certified by the LEED for Homes program of the US Green Building Council, which promotes the design and construction of high performance green homes. The LEED rating system measures, among other things, the ability to reduce the negative environmental impacts of the building, as well as improve occupant health and well-being.
Our preliminary LEED for Homes rating indicated the first house will qualify at the LEED Gold standard with a possibility of the highest overall rating, Platinum. The house will also exceed Energy Star standards, the City of Cleveland's 2009 green housing construction standards, and the Enterprise Green Communities standards. Most importantly, all the Green Cottages will be long-term assets for the community and provide an energy-efficient, accessible, durable, healthy home for many decades to come.
The Green Cottages feature:
- An energy efficient building envelope, well insulated and air sealed
- Energy efficient HVAC system, windows and lighting system
- Energy efficient AND brand new appliance package, including refrigerator, range and range hood, dishwasher and washer and dryer
- Water-conserving fixtures, including low flow faucets and dual flush toilets
- Low VOC paints, sealants and finishes, high-quality flooring and controlled ventilation to provide a healthy and fresh indoor air quality
The homeowner will see the benefits of these features in reduced utility costs. Heating bills, for example, are projected at $432 per year for the 3-bedroom model, or an average of $36 a month. (See the chart below for projected energy savings.)
The Green Cottages are also conveniently located near the Rapid station and major bus lines, minimizing transportation costs and homeowners' reliance on automobiles.
Green Cottages Projected Energy Savings
3 bedroom model
Utility cost projections from an independent HERS-certified analyst at current rates. Utility costs for typical home based on Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Utility Allowance.
