The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) unveiled a landmark National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building last week.
This significant move aims to catalyze public and private sector collaboration in decarbonizing the building sector, which accounts for over a third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions.
Empowering the Transition to a Cleaner Future
The definition serves as a guiding framework to facilitate the transition of both new and existing commercial and residential buildings towards zero emissions, a crucial step in achieving President Biden’s ambitious climate goals. By establishing a standardized definition, the DOE fosters the development of next-generation clean energy solutions, drives innovation, and creates high-quality jobs.
Cost Savings and Market Certainty for a Sustainable Building Sector
Nearly 130 million existing buildings in the U.S. collectively spend over $400 billion annually on energy consumption. Additionally, 40 million new homes and a vast expanse of commercial space are projected by 2050. This highlights the urgency for a consistent zero-emissions definition to expedite progress, reduce energy bills for homeowners and businesses, and provide market clarity.
Building a Roadmap for Decarbonization
Earlier this year, the DOE outlined a blueprint to slash U.S. building emissions by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050. The DOE emphasizes the potential of energy efficiency, heat pumps, and clean energy to achieve zero emissions in both new and existing buildings while bolstering domestic manufacturing and reducing embodied carbon.
National Definition: A Pillar for Zero Emissions Buildings
Part 1 of the National Definition establishes criteria for buildings to achieve zero emissions from energy use during operation. To qualify, a building must be energy efficient, free of on-site emissions from energy use, and rely solely on clean energy. Future iterations of the definition may address embodied carbon and other relevant considerations.
Collaborative Development and Widespread Adoption
The DOE gathered extensive feedback from industry, academia, and stakeholders through a request for information (RFI) process. The resulting definition, though not a regulatory standard, provides guidance for public and private entities to assess and certify zero emissions buildings.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Decarbonization
The DOE’s announcement coincides with several key initiatives:
- Leading green building certification programs have committed to adopting or exceeding the zero-emissions definition.
- The Federal Government will utilize the definition in leasing net-zero emissions buildings, setting a precedent for federal leases starting in 2030.
- The Better Climate Challenge has garnered commitments from major real estate owners to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% within 10 years.
- Programs like DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Homes and the EPA’s ENERGY STAR NextGen™ pave the way for zero-emissions buildings.
- The Affordable Home Energy Shot™ and the Clean Energy for New Federal Buildings Rule aim to reduce energy costs, create jobs, and improve efficiency.
The DOE’s comprehensive approach, coupled with the National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building, is set to transform the building sector and contribute significantly to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
The full National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building Part 1 is available in National Definition of a Zero Emissions Building Part 1: Operational Emissions from Energy Use (Version 1).