Download Net Zero Energy Buildings - USGBC Massachusetts Chapter

Net Zero Energy Buildings
We cannot address climate change without addressing carbon pollution
from the building sector. A net zero energy building code requirement will
decrease our use of fossil fuels thus reducing the detrimental impacts of
climate change.
Net Zero Energy Buildings strive for 100% renewable energy generation for
the building’s total energy consumption.
Anticipated Paths to Reduced Energy Use
Net Zero Energy Building Legislation
Senate bill S1771:
Proposed by Senator Eldridge and co-sponsored by Chris Walsh, Denise Provost, Marjorie C. Decker,
David M. Rogers, Brian A. Joyce, Jonathan Hecht, Benjamin Swan, Daniel J. Ryan, Marc R. Pacheco,
Gailanne M. Cariddi.
Establish a zero net energy building standard for new residential construction by
January 1, 2020 and for new commercial construction by January 1, 2030. The
BBRS shall implement residential and commercial zero net energy building
regulations as part of the state building code, together with any more stringent
energy efficiency provisions that the board, in consultation with the Department of
Energy Resources, concludes are warranted.
To establish two definitions, in consultation with the department of energy resources
and after sufficient time for public input, one for “residential zero net-energy
buildings,” to be established by January 1st, 2017, and one for “commercial zero net
energy buildings,” to be established by January 1st, 2018. The definitions shall take
into account zero net energy building definitions established in other states or
municipalities and the current and anticipated climate of Massachusetts.
Synergies/Considerations
Solar Policy / Grid Integration
 MA Net Metering and Solar Task Force Report
Financing
Clean Tech
Enforcement / Building Performance Model
Municipal Support, Community Engagement
Setting an Example w/ State projects
Precedents
California Green Building Standard NZE
 Residential 2020, Commercial 2030, 50% Existing Commercial 2030
Cambridge Net Zero Task Force Report
 Residential 2022, Commercial 2025, Existing Retrofits 2023