There is a general perception that sustainable buildings cost more.
A recent Ministry for the Environment case study on commercial buildings found a fairly wide range, from 15% less to 10% more, in the initial capital cost compared to conventional good quality buildings. The average initial capital cost premium for sustainable features was only 2-6% more than standard buildings.
The study also found that the energy savings alone are 35 - 50% compared to conventional buildings. See Value Case for Sustainable Building in New Zealand report for more information.
“In most cases it is possible to design attractive, uncomplicated sustainable buildings that operate in a straightforward manner, achieve high standards of energy efficiency, and incur little or no additional cost.” – Value Case for Sustainable Building in New Zealand report.
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