How HOAs Are Going Green in 2025

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a movement. Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) across North America are turning to environmentally friendly initiatives to make their communities greener, cleaner, and more cost-effective. From solar panels to smart irrigation, HOAs are proving that eco-conscious living can be both practical and beautiful.

Keep reading to see some of the most popular sustainable initiatives HOAs are adopting and how they’re making a big impact.

Why Sustainability Matters for HOAs

Sustainable HOA practices aren’t just great for the planet—they’re great for a community’s bottom line. Since 2005, eco-conscious technologies and programs have helped cut household energy use by 20%, saving over $18 billion in energy costs and 16.2 billion gallons of water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

By investing in environmentally friendly landscaping, solar-powered amenities, and automated HOA management solutions, communities can reduce overhead while boosting property values for a healthier, happier neighborhood.

8 Smart Sustainability Tips for HOAs

Management leaders don’t have to overwhelm board members or budgets to make communities greener. These practical tips make it easy for associations of all sizes to embrace sustainability without breaking a sweat—or the bank.

1. Go paperless.

Cutting down on paper is one of the simplest ways to start the journey to greener living. HOAs can streamline many operations and reduce waste by moving key processes online. Here are just a few things communities can now handle electronically:

• Online payments & billing
• Architectural requests & approvals
• Digital voting & elections
• Work order submissions & tracking
• Maintenance requests
• Community updates & newsletters
• Document storage & access
• Violations tracking & enforcement

2. Landscape wisely.

Traditional landscaping can consume a lot of water and be high maintenance. In response, many HOAs are turning to xeriscaping—a landscaping method that combines drought-tolerant plants and minimal irrigation to conserve water and reduce upkeep. This technique incorporates gravel beds, mulch, and low-water plants, such as lavender and agave. Not only do these options minimize water usage, but they also eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Other popular drought-tolerant plants include:

• Texas Sage
• Red Yucca
• Lantana
• Blue Fescue
• Salvia
• Succulents

Bonus tip: Consider installing rain gardens and bioswales to manage stormwater naturally. It benefits the environment and curb appeal.

3. Leverage sunlight.

Solar panels aren’t exclusively for individual homes anymore. HOAs are harnessing solar energy for shared spaces like clubhouses, pools, and street lighting. This decreases reliance on the grid while lowering energy bills for the entire neighborhood!

Some HOAs are even partnering with solar providers to offer discounted installations for residents, making it an ideal way to encourage clean energy adoption across the community.

4. Conserve water.

Water preservation is a top priority for many communities, especially in drought-prone regions. Smart irrigation systems use weather data and soil sensors to monitor real-time conditions and tailor watering schedules to soil moisture levels and upcoming rainfall.

HOAs that implement these systems often experience a significant drop in water use and utility costs while enjoying healthier, more vibrant green spaces.

5. Start recycling.

A recycling program is one of the most basic ways to diminish waste. Many HOAs are making it easier to reduce, reuse, and repurpose with centralized recycling stations, composting bins, and even e-waste drop-off sites for safely disposing of unwanted electronics.

Some associations go the extra mile by hosting educational workshops on proper recycling practices and regulatory updates, keeping residents informed and engaged.  

6. Optimize energy.

From LED-lit common areas to frugal HVAC systems, communities are investing in upgrades that consume less energy. These changes lower operating costs and can improve residents' comfort and air quality. Popular energy-saving upgrades include:

• LED lighting in shared spaces
• Motion-sensor lights
• Programmable thermostats
• AI-powered HVAC systems & sensors

Management teams can even include routine energy audits to identify savings opportunities. These improvements support sustainability, boost long-term savings, and prolong the lifespan of vital community appliances.

7. Build green.

New developments in engineering and design are increasingly taking an eco-first approach. Managed communities often work with developers to ensure that homes meet green building standards, such as:

• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): A certification used for sustainable building design, construction, and operation.
• ENERGY STAR ratings: A U.S. program from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certifying energy-efficient homes and appliances.
• National Green Building Standard (NGBS): A resident-specific standard covering energy, water, and resource efficiency.

Meaningful upgrades are still possible for older communities, too! Simple retrofits, such as added insulation, double-pane window installation, LED lighting, and low-toxin paints and materials, can significantly improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality.

8. Drive smart.

Green living initiatives don’t stop at property adjustments. Modern communities also encourage sustainable ways to get around. Bike racks, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and carpool programs are just a few ways HOAs can incorporate eco-conscious thinking into community planning.

Want to double down on these efforts? Offering incentives like transportation reimbursements or reserved parking for residents who use public transit or drive EVs are effective ways to create a more environmentally friendly neighborhood.

Smart Savings Start with TownSq

HOA sustainability initiatives don’t have to be complicated or costly. Small changes can lead to big benefits, from going paperless and upgrading to LED lighting to drought-tolerant landscaping and smart irrigation. Green-friendly practices like carpools, recycling programs, and property modifications contribute to long-term community health, protect property values, and enhance homeowner satisfaction. For more practical tips on going green, check out our article, 7 Ways to Become an Eco-Friendly HOA.

Ready to turn these ideas into action? TownSq’s full-spectrum HOA management software can help. Request a free, 30-day trial to discover how easy it is to manage a community that’s as kind to the environment as it is to its residents.