Be SMART
DHCD’s Be SMART program, funded through the US Department of Energy’s Better Buildings
program, provides increased comfort, safety and affordability to buildings in Maryland
through energy efficiency improvements. $508 million in federal funding has allowed
41 state and local government leaders to expand the building improvement industry
and pave the way for a cleaner energy future. Maryland received $20 million in funding
for the Be SMART program to finance improvements to homes, businesses and multifamily
buildings. DHCD is working with local partners and contractors to provide financing
for energy efficiency improvements across the state. Through the Be SMART program,
financing is available for the purchase and installation of equipment and materials
for energy efficiency measures. Such items include, but are not limited to ENERGY
STAR qualified: HVAC systems, insulation, windows, draft stopping and duct sealing,
appliances and fixtures, and water heating equipment. These improvements are expected
to result in energy savings of 15-30%. This translates to significantly lower energy
bills for consumers, more comfortable buildings and reduced consumption of fossil
fuels.
Announcement
June 15, 2013 is the deadline for potential customers to submit Be SMART Home Loan
applications. Requests for financing will be processed on a first come, first serve
basis, so we encourage your prompt and timely submittal. (See the Be SMART Program Notification #1)
DHCD’s Be SMART initiative is also providing training for the implementation of
the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) that will lead to an ICC-recognized
certification for plan reviewers, inspectors, developers, engineers, and architects
and will assist local jurisdictions in active compliance and enforcement of the
energy codes. For more information on the Maryland Codes Administration and upcoming
training sessions, please visit
www.mdcodes.org.
Let DHCD help you to Be SMART and start Saving
Money And Resources Today!