This resource guide provides state and local leaders with streamlined access to key existing resources for developing and implementing high-impact building energy benchmarking and transparency programs in their jurisdictions.
Local governments across the U.S. are leading the charge on a variety of complex objectives, which include developing plans to meet long-term climate goals, improving public health, increasing access to energy-saving programs, and enhancing local resilience to extreme weather. Utilities play an invaluable role in these efforts by collecting and sharing energy consumption and program … Continued
This executive summary of Rethinking Energy Data Access: Conquering Barriers to Achieve Local Climate Goals provides an easy-to-digest summary of the report’s top findings and recommendations for local government sustainability staff, utilities, and utility regulators on how to reform the ways in which data is requested, protected, and shared in order to advance critical goals for each party.
The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets the minimum energy efficiency standards for commercial and residential buildings. No matter what town or city you are in, it likely enforces a version of the IECC—most cities and states adopt the IECC as is, or a version that is based on the code. This means updates to … Continued
The number, frequency, and intensity of disasters affecting U.S. cities is growing. From floods and fires to sub-zero cold snaps and extreme heat, it seems like every week we are provided with another example of why communities need more tools to ensure they are more resilient, prepared for weather-related disruptions, and can quickly recover. The … Continued
Improving the efficiency of new and existing buildings is a crucial strategy for cities and states that are charting a path to decrease carbon emissions and meet ambitious climate goals. But what about the materials that are being used to construct and retrofit buildings? Fabricating the materials that comprise buildings—like concrete, steel, and windows—also releases … Continued
Six strategies for landlords and tenants to internalize efficiency and maximize savings.
Energy efficiency doesn’t just happen. It is made possible by the many building owners, property managers, sustainability and energy managers, architects, designers, retrofit contractors, energy service companies, and too many other types of professionals to name who develop and utilize innovative strategies that transform buildings and spaces so they perform better, save money, and reduce … Continued
This year has been a breakthrough for climate action in the midst of enormous challenges. As devastating impacts and warning signs mounted, city governments, businesses, real estate leaders, and individuals took on a new level of urgency to deploy solutions that will reduce carbon emissions and move us faster towards a cleaner, more energy-efficient future. … Continued
After more than a year of private sector and community engagement, Fort Collins, Colo., became the 25th U.S. city to pass a benchmarking and transparency policy for privately owned buildings on December 4. This is a key step in accomplishing Fort Collins’ ambitious climate goal of being carbon neutral by 2050, and follows the City’s … Continued