Healthy and Green Retrofit Pilot Program

How it works

The City of Boston says the Healthy and Green Retrofit Pilot Program helps eligible owner-occupants of two- to four-unit homes plan and complete retrofit work that improves health, comfort, and resilience. The program began in fall 2023. For the second cohort, the Mayor’s Office of Housing randomly selected 20 building owners to proceed through the eligibility process and also selected 15 alternates.

What the money covers

Participants receive an energy assessment from a qualified decarbonization advisor. Based on that assessment, the owner and advisor create a custom green retrofit plan. The page says the plan may include decarbonization work such as:

• better insulation and air sealing
• improved ventilation
• new appliances
• air conditioning
• rooftop solar panels

The page also says owners may receive technical support for solar photovoltaics, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging.

Amounts and matching

Eligible building owners may receive up to $50,000 per unit for construction costs. The funding is described as a forgivable, 0% deferred loan with no monthly payments. It is forgiven after 10 years if program terms are met.

How the money is administered

Boston Home Center staff handle the project process, including gathering bids from contractors, helping choose the contractor, overseeing construction, and making sure the contractor is paid after work is checked.

Timing and deadlines

Applications for the second cohort are closed. The page says the program launched in fall 2023 and that the second cohort selection was done on May 8. After selection, eligibility is confirmed by a Boston Home Center Program Manager.

Important terms

If the owner moves, sells, transfers the title, or does a cash-out refinance before the 10-year term ends, the loan must be repaid in full. The property may not be converted to condominiums during the 10-year term.