The City of Portland is once again accepting applications for ecoroof incentives to spur construction of new ecoroofs in Portland. The city will accept incentive applications twice a year through 2013. The deadline to apply for this cycle is December 1, 2011. The next ecoroof incentive cycle will begin in spring 2012.

Ecoroofs are vegetated roof systems that reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality and save energy. Since the incentive program began, the city has approved $2.4-million for 145 projects, resulting in 11 acres of new ecoroof. There are currently 300 ecoroofs in Portland covering nearly 15 acres.

The ecoroof incentive is part of the Grey to Green effort to expand Portland's green stormwater management infrastructure, protect natural areas and improve fish and wildlife habitat. The Grey to Green goal is to add 43 acres of new ecoroofs by 2013.

The incentive pays up to $5 per square foot for new ecoroof projects in the city. Ecoroofs in Portland typically cost between $5 and $20 per square foot. Industrial, residential, commercial and mixed-use projects are eligible. For this cycle, the city added criteria to promote diversity in ecoroof projects. Projects that apply the new criteria will rate higher during the evaluation process.

Those interested in the program can apply online or download a PDF application at www.portlandonline.com/bes/ecoroofincentive. To receive an application form in the mail, email besecoroof@portlandoregon.gov or call 503-823-7914.

For more information, contact Linc Mann, 503-823-5328.