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How can an energy retrofit help my co-op do more with less?
Maybe you’re looking to lower your co-op’s energy bills by installing a new high-efficiency boiler or replacing those drafty old windows. The question becomes “Is this the best investment for our co-op?”
Co-ops take different approaches to energy retrofits. Some do one project at a time, perhaps by
More Time to Apply for Your CHF Canada Green Co-op Microgrant
Does your co-op have a small green project in mind? This is your moment. Apply now and take advantage of the deadline extension to April 30, 2020.
Housing co-ops can save some money and help the environment too through CHF Canada’s Greener Co‑op Microgrant program. The grant applications are
The International Good Governance Test
Your Expiring Operating Agreement
Over the next few years, many housing co-operatives will see their operating agreement come to an end. This event could mean a new beginning for your co-op. You can enjoy a bright future without an operating agreement—provided you play your cards right.
Perhaps your co-op’s future includes major
FCM: Sustainable Affordable Housing Fund
On May 15, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) launched a $300 million fund to support sustainable affordable housing. This fund will help pay for the planning and delivery of retrofits and new construction for higher energy performance.
Here’s what we know so far from FCM….
The Green
Get Paid
Your co-operative is in the housing business, not the lending business. It has bills to pay and a building to keep up. You should keep this in mind when members don’t pay on time.
If a household doesn’t pay what it owes and moves out, the co-operative is left with a bad debt, which will have to be
Save Water
Sounds simple, but if every member uses less water, you can shrink your co-operative’s water bill, leaving more money for other priorities. Water rates may rise in future; now is the time to take action.
Use Less Energy
Are outdoor lights on sensors or timers? Has your co-op switched to LED lighting in your common spaces? Good investment! Not only will it use 75 to 90 % less electricity than incandescent, but the bulbs will last much longer.
Encourage your members to cut energy use too. They can turn down the
Tip of the Month
Arrears Cost
Half the Agency's clients have member arrears and bad debts below $44 a unit, and half above. In 2007, the midpoint was $86. Great news in a challenging year.