Energy

Opportunities for reducing utility costs continue to exist and are cost effective in many instances due to ongoing improvements in technology. Housing authority managers need to be aware of, evaluate, and give maximum consideration to these ongoing and new opportunities when managing their utility costs. Because of improvements in technology, managing utilities is a continuous process that requires an ongoing energy management program.

PHA's that are effectively managing their utility consumption are going through a dynamic process - evaluating current usage, implementing recommendations for energy cost savings, and monitoring the results. A good energy audit process can provide a PHA with many benefits and insights and does not have to be very complex.

A PHA can do the energy audit in conjunction with its five-year action plan which is required for the Capital Fund Program. The modernization regulations are being amended to require the incorporation of the energy conservation measures resulting from an audit performed under this subpart.