Central Arizona Project and CAGRD are proud EPA WaterSense partners. So when the EPA updated its WaterSense standard for new home construction, an idea was born to couple the WaterSense certification with CAGRD’s desire to inspire additional conservation for its members. The result is CAGRD’s new Water-Efficient Construction Incentive Program.
The recently launched program invites homebuilders in CAGRD’s Member Lands and select Member Service Areas to apply for rebates of up to $1,000 for new houses earning Water Sense 2.0 certification. According to the EPA, this is the first of its kind in this region. WaterSense-labeled homes use 30 percent less water than typical new construction.
For CAGRD and its members, it’s a win-win.
Less groundwater used by CAGRD members means less groundwater to replenish now and less water to acquire in the future. Homebuilders get help with the costs associated with WaterSense certification.
CAGRD collects $2 per lot from the enrollment fees paid by developers to enroll their land as well as $2 for every acre-foot of excess groundwater reported annually by its members. This funds conservation efforts such as this water-efficient construction incentive program.
KB Home was the first recipient for 43 homes located in Pima County (the Entrada del Rio development in Sahuarita and the Rocking K community in southeast Tucson). These homes are served by the Spanish Trail Water Company and Sahuarita Water Company, which are both CAGRD Member Service areas.
“KB Home has long championed the important role that EPA’s WaterSense program plays in helping to reduce water usage, save our homeowners on utility costs and mitigate drought conditions,” said Amy McReynolds, President of KB Home’s Tucson division. “We take pride in our industry-leading approach to water conservation and are committed to building all future homes in Arizona communities to EPA’s highest water-efficiency standards. We are also proud to be the first homebuilder to partner with CAGRD on a program that helps residents and communities conserve this vital resource.”
Homebuilders building in any CAGRD Member land and the Member Service areas of Copper Mountain CFD, El Mirage, EPCOR San Tan, EPCOR San Tan Anthem, Metro Water – Diablo, Sahuarita Water Company and Spanish Trail Water Company can learn more here.
The program will offer at least $150,000 in rebates through May 2024 or until annual funding has been distributed. (NOTE: At time of publication, less than half of the incentive funds remain available.)
