Boston’s proposed net-zero emissions code has developers concerned

Developers have raised serious concerns over a proposed new energy code by the City of Boston that would require newly constructed buildings over 20,000 sf to immediately hit net-zero emissions goals.

The new regulation would apply to labs, offices, and housing projects with more than 15 units. Some developers have raised concerns about the kind of impact further electrifying commercial and residential real estate would have on the state’s power grid.

The state is preparing for the possibility of rolling blackouts this winter, according to a report by the Boston Globe. Other developers interviewed by the newspaper expressed concern about the financial feasibility of the beefed-up energy code, particularly for smaller projects.

The code change is not finalized or approved, and the city’s planning and development agency has initiated a public comment period. It also plans to create an advisory committee to oversee the code.