On April 1, 2012, the City of Portland resumed accepting applications for ecoroof incentives. The city accepts applications twice a year and will offer the incentive through 2013 to spur ecoroof construction in Portland. The next application deadline is Friday, June 1, 2012. Another ecoroof incentive cycle will begin in winter 2012.

Ecoroofs are vegetated roof systems that absorb rain to reduce stormwater runoff. Ecoroofs also improve air quality and save energy. Since the incentive program began in 2008, the city has approved $2.1-million for 159 projects, resulting in 10 acres of new ecoroof. There are currently 330 ecoroofs in Portland covering nearly 16 acres.

The ecoroof incentive is part of the Grey to Green initiative 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.

Application materials and more information are available 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.