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Oct. 9, 2014 — The built environment in the United States is poised for a transformation that experts believe will result in high-performance, resilient spaces that save owners money on energy expenses. Commercial projects aiming for net zero energy (NZE) performance have grown by 300 percent since 2012, according to research by the New Buildings Institute (NBI).
NZE buildings are extremely energy-efficient structures that use only as much energy as can be produced onsite through renewable resources such as photovoltaics.
“While still in the beginning stages of market adoption, NZE could expand rapidly in both new construction and major renovations as the design community gains technical capability and owners better understand the benefits of these buildings,” said NBI Executive Director Ralph DiNola.
“When we talk about net zero energy, most people immediately think of California. But the Northeast is making all the right moves to take the leadership position on this exciting new direction for buildings.”
Vermont and Massachusetts both have statewide policies that support NZE projects and Efficiency Vermont and National Grid are looking to build on the momentum for NZE by providing additional resources that catalyze design innovation and reward owners who pursue NZE buildings.
To help build knowledge about best practices in NZE commercial building design and operations, the two entities teamed on Net Zero Northeast, a one-day technical summit for designers and owners/operators that was held earlier this month at the Vermont State House in Montpelier, Vt.
Efficiency Vermont provides technical assistance, rebates, and other financial incentives to help Vermont households and businesses reduce their energy costs with energy-efficient equipment, lighting, and approaches to construction and major renovation.
National Grid is an electricity and gas company that connects consumers to energy sources through its networks.
