ABQ Times

The City of Albuquerque has embarked on a new initiative to promote the intersection of affordable housing and environmentally friendly practices. In partnership with the International Center for Appropriate and Sustainable Technology (ICAST), the city is taking significant steps towards achieving its sustainability goals by focusing on energy efficiency improvements in affordable housing properties.

Deputy Director of Housing, Joseph Montoya, highlighted the importance of this endeavor, stating, “Utilities can be one of the highest expenses for households.” He emphasized the dual benefits of the project, mentioning that it will not only save tenants money but also prolong the lifespan of the housing units, ensuring continued affordability for years to come.

ICAST, a renowned organization dedicated to implementing clean energy solutions in multi-family affordable housing, will be spearheading the assessment and enhancement of energy and water usage across the city's housing properties. Ravi Malhotra, President, and Founder of ICAST, underscored the broader impact of the initiative, stating, "The weatherization of these properties is more than just building retrofits; they are a path to energy efficiency, savings, and safety."

Furthermore, Ann Simon, Deputy Director of Policy and Sustainability Officer for the City of Albuquerque, emphasized the city's commitment to addressing energy disparities within communities. She stated, “We’re continuing to address the unequal energy burdens that our frontline communities face,” highlighting the importance of energy efficiency projects in promoting financial savings, reducing emissions, and fostering equity within the city.

Aligned with the City's 2021 Climate Action Plan, the project signifies a dedicated effort to tackle existing disparities by implementing initiatives that alleviate energy costs for frontline communities. This initiative builds upon the success of the Community Energy Efficiency project, which has already provided over 200 homes with free energy audits and upgrades in collaboration with partners like PNM and Prosperity Works.