The number of net zero commercial buildings under construction in the U.S. and Canada in 2017 rose by nearly 50% over the previous year.
Though the total number of “emerging” net zero buildings, 279, is small, observers say interest in pursuing these projects has never been stronger and is growing quickly. “Zero energy” refers to buildings that generate at least 100% of their own power from renewable sources that are either onsite or built specifically for the project.
Sixty-seven commercial buildings have now been “verified” in the U.S. and Canada, according to a recent report from the New Buildings Institute. Steep drops in the cost of solar panels and improvements in their performance have been a key driver of the trend.
More economical PVs have prompted some owners to reach for net zero when they previously had seen that goal as cost-prohibitive. Codes and incentives are also influencing the growth of net zero buildings. More than half the emerging net zero buildings are in California, which has a stringent energy code and a mandate for all new state buildings to be designed for zero energy performance by 2020.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
New Specifications for Concrete Construction reference manual released
Scope expanded to include shotcrete, internal curing, mineral fillers, and recycled concrete aggregates.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2020
Despite COVID-19 population flight, don’t write off big cities yet
Lure of urban life and jobs may draw people back after pandemic subsides.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Test method for vertical fenestration installation procedures updated
FGIA issues first update for document created in 2005.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Updated EPDs for Polyiso Roof and Wall Insulation; EPD for Polyiso High-Density Cover Boards published
Cover Boards EPD is an industry first.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Newly formed Rainscreen Association aims to be recognized authority on rainscreen assemblies
Will address innovations in material performance and building designs.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Investors want building resiliency plans and risk mitigation practices
Owners should assess risk, insurance coverage, and ability to withstand disasters.
Codes and Standards | Dec 4, 2020
OSHA cites more than 200 employers for COVID-19 violations
Agency releases guidance on lessons learned from pandemic inspections.
Codes and Standards | Dec 1, 2020
Pandemic spurs nearly 16 million people to move from major cities
Most of the movement seems permanent.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
USGBC ready to catalyze LEED Positive future
New programs, updates will spur shift to regenerative strategies.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2020
Updated spec for self-adhering flashing surrounding exterior fenestration products released
FGIA document was last updated in 2013.