Dr. Norman Muraya of Austin Energy presented on the utility's cool roof incentive program. Austin Energy promotes reflective roof products as a cost-effective and low-risk way to reduce cooling loads and peak demand. The utility also believes cool roofs can improve the environment by lowering smog concentrations and can promote economic development. Cool roofs work by reflecting most of the sun's energy, reducing heat gain to the inside of the building.

Muraya said that Austin Energy customers are eligible for the $.10/square foot rebate if the cool roof has a minimum reflectivity of 75%, and the project passes a cost-benefit analysis.

At the time of final inspection, the customer must provide: 1) an invoice, 2) warranty statements, and 3) the manufacturer’s product information.

• Austin Energy’s Cool Roof Rebate Program (PDF)(10 pp, 500 K)