Building Better Homes Program

The Building Better Homes Program is a grant program that provides financial incentives to home builders and developers to support the design and new construction of zero emissions (all-electric) homes in New York State. The program aims to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions associated with the operation of newly constructed homes and provide healthy, comfortable, and safe living environments for occupants. The program offers incentives for zero emissions home design or re-design, passive house-focused training, the new construction of single-family, two-family homes and townhomes, and support for the marketing and promotion of zero emissions homes. • Incentives are available for zero emissions home design or re-design, passive house-focused training, and the new construction of single-family, two-family homes and townhomes. • Applicants must apply with a new construction zero emissions single-family, two-family home or townhome. • Homes must be designed and constructed to be clean and resilient, reducing energy use, eliminating fossil fuels, and addressing forward-looking climate conditions. • The program requires certification to one of the listed third-party standards, including EPA ENERGY STAR, Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home, and Passive House Institute. • Deliverables are required to secure incentives, including PDF copies of completed design or re-design documents, completion certificates for approved training, and building permits. • NYSERDA may conduct site visits to verify compliance with program requirements.