I wrote about green roofs on buildings a few weeks ago, but here is an article from the Wall Street Journal further outlining why they make good economic sense and cents for cities. Chicago is doing this and wants to expand the program. Here is what they say:
City officials in Chicago now estimate that their green roof saves the city about $3,600 a year in cooling and heating costs. If all of Chicago’s roofs were greened, they add, the city’s peak energy demand could be cut by 720 megawatts — enough electricity for 750,000 people. The load on the city’s storm-sewer system, meanwhile, would be slashed by about 70%. (emphasis is mine)
Chicago is offering a quicker permit process and $5000 in grant money to private companies who will green their roofs. Grass/sod is the easiest green roof. You can also do plants like Sedum that not only are low maintenance but they hold water in their leaves. We have similar climates, Chicago and Cleveland, so this makes real sense and cents here. A green roof is not tree hugging, it’s good economics no? Peace Out – 3C
more links:
Great Lakes Water Institute Green Roof Project
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