The general perception is that building green means higher operational cost and delays in schedules. This is just a perception and in most cases it is wrong. If you do it correctly and stick to the initial plan and budget, it can be quite beneficial in a long run. We are talking here both commercial buildings and residential dwellings.
So, is it cheaper or more expensive to build green homes? Let me put it this way: if you build environmentally friendly houses only to fulfil your ambitions or to rise your profile, or if you fail to plan properly, you might end up spending more than on a conventional building. However, if you approach the project with due diligence and geared towards saving money, you will save it.
Here are some benefits of going green on your building site:
- Saving money on energy bills. A properly built and insulated green home will save you anywhere between 30 and 50% off the fuel bill. This is huge, if we talk about large corporate projects. We are talking hundreds of thousands per year! Also maintenance costs go down because natural materials don’t require the same attention than all that modern synthetic junk.
- Save on insurance and taxes. In many cases you will be able to claim tax credits or even apply for an incentive. Just contact your local council (UK) or municipality (USA). There are more incentives for USA builders but some benefits are available for British people too.
- Happiness. Yes, that’s right. Happy and healthy people live longer and work more (if you’re building an office block). Indoor pollution can cause allergies and certain types of illness. Don’t make your family or colleagues breath phenol that comes out of synthetic design materials and chipboard furniture. There are cheaper and healthier alternatives!
- Brand awareness. A green office building would attract media attention, you would get journalists flocking at your door wanting to write about your project. Free publicity. I bet you might find it useful.
Picture by Lamiot distributed on a GNU licence
