The U.S. Department of Energy has released a new national definition of a zero emissions building.
The definition is intended to provide industry guidance to support new and existing commercial and residential buildings to move towards zero emissions across the entire building sector, DOE says. “The definition provides market certainty and clarity to scale zero emissions new construction and retrofits,” according to a DOE statement.
By the definition, at a minimum, a zero emissions building must be energy efficient, free of onsite emissions from energy use, and powered solely from clean energy. In the future, the definition may address emissions from embodied carbon (producing, transporting, installing, and disposing of building materials) and additional considerations.
The definition is not a regulatory standard or a certification. It is intended to provide guidance that public and private entities may adopt to determine whether a building has zero emissions from operational energy use. “It is not a substitute for the green building and energy efficiency standards and certifications that public and private parties have developed,” DOE says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
Washington D.C.’s flattened skyline can be a virtue
Zoning ordinance that ties building heights to width of streets dictates form.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
Silicon Valley cities considering taxes aimed at large employers
The aim is to offset the impact on housing costs and homelessness by tech companies.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
OSHA proposes new crane operator safety rule
Would provide long-term clarity on certification requirements.
Codes and Standards | May 29, 2018
Government support helping to drive demand for green building materials
Market projects to grow 12.5% annually between 2013 and 2019.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2018
‘Amazon tax’ could slow Seattle’s construction boom
City imposes employer head count tax to fund affordable housing.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2018
AAMA releases 2017/2018 fenestration market studies
Offers forecasts of industry trends.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2018
Registration open for 2018 National Energy Codes Conference
U.S. Department of Energy event to be held July 15th-17th in Austin.
Codes and Standards | May 21, 2018
New standard tests quietness of floors
ASTM International method will help manufacturers test their flooring materials.
Codes and Standards | May 17, 2018
California will require solar panels on most new homes
Projected to add $10,000 to cost of new homes.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2018
New resources offer tips on off-site construction
NIBS documents address using pre-cast concrete, and commercial and legal considerations of modular construction.
