Newburgh, NY - U.S. Rep. John Hall (D-NY19) stood with Todd DiOrio, President of the Hudson Valley Building Trades, and union representatives training in "green" building construction today to announce federal initiatives Congressman Hall is pushing to support energy-efficient construction.

 

"The very buildings that we live and work in create some of our greatest power needs and represent some of our biggest chances to reap tremendous economic and environmental benefits through innovation," said Hall.  "With winter approaching, temperatures dropping, and energy costs rising, it’s clear we need to leave no stone unturned in our efforts to cut energy bills and reduce demand for fossil fuels."

 

Congressman Hall announced today that he is signing on as a cosponsor to H.R. 539, The Buildings for the 21st Century Act, legislation that would expand federal tax deductions for energy efficient commercial buildings.  The Buildings for the 21st Century Act would provide a deduction of $2.25 per square foot for buildings with energy efficiency improvements that reduce total energy use by 50 percent or more compared to industry standards.  The bill also provides a tax deduction of $0.75 per square foot for improvements to lighting, building envelope, or heating and cooling systems that meet target levels of energy savings.  For a 2,600 square foot building these numbers translate to $5,850 and $1,950, respectively, in federal tax deductions for property owners using “green” construction. 

 

"Congress needs to lead the fight against global warming by offering incentives for energy-efficient construction practices for local businesses," said Hall.  "By using environmentally friendly construction methods, energy efficient building materials, and incorporating efficient appliances and renewable generation techniques that are available today, our region and our nation have the opportunity to do well while doing good.  Studies have shown that by investing an additional 2% or less in green design and construction, owners can see savings of up to 20% of overall construction costs over a building’s lifetime."

 

Hall has been working in Congress to steer federal dollars to energy-efficient buildings in the Hudson Valley.  He worked to get $100,000 included in the House Energy and Water Appropriations Bill for a First Responder 'Green' House to be built in Lewisboro using geothermal, solar, and green building materials to contribute to an efficient and environmentally friendly design.

 

Hall has also advocated for the Long Dock Beacon hotel project, which would use LEED-certified materials and practices to set new standards in the Hudson Valley for energy efficiency.

 

"Green building practices will help businesses and homeowners save on their operating expenses through reduced energy costs," said Hall. "Lowered demand for power will mean lower emissions levels for a healthier environment and a revolution in 'green collar' construction jobs will help to fuel our economy."

 

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