Author(s)

T. WU & R.E. SMITH

Abstract

This paper reports a return on investment (ROI) feasibility study of applying a green roof on a future pharmacy building at the University of Utah. A 40-year life cycle costs versus benefits comparative analysis has been performed for green roof, black roof, and reflective roof alternatives to quantify the economic benefits from green roofs. A green roof has a larger initial capital investment when compared with black or a reflective roof; however, the life cycle accumulative values of benefits from a green roof have been calculated at 27 years, positive net present value, and 100% ROI. This conclusion makes the green roof alternative a better advisable investment than the other two roof alternatives.

Keywords

Energy efficiency, lifecycle cost, green roof benefits, return on investment