Inspired by a New Partnership

In January of 2022, the White House introduced a new partnership between different states, cities, labor, and industries called theBuilding Performance Standards Coalition.There are 33 different state and local governments throughout the USA teaming up to ensure the buildings in their jurisdiction are cleaner, more energy-efficient and sustainable. They’ll help reduce building emissions, improve air quality and reduce energy costs. The State of Colorado and the City and County of Denver volunteered to be a part of this historic coalition.

What is Denver doing to make the planet a little bit better? 

After realizing the buildings and homes in Denver were responsible for 49% of the greenhouse gas emissions in the city, the  City and County of Denver took action. In addition to joining the Building Performance Standards Coalition, they came up with an ambitious plan called Energize Denver to make all existing buildings net zero by 2030.

Sustainable Actions

So what does that mean, exactly? “Net zero” emissions means all-electric powered and grid-powered renewable energy for commercial buildings and homes. These goals will not only improve air quality in Denver, but also lower energy costs for residents and businesses alike.

Building Goals for the City of Denver

• Building code updates are underway for new homes and buildings to achieve net zero energy.  
• All existing buildings and homes will have net zero energy by 2030
• Have stronger standards for commercial and residential buildings that are healthier for their occupants and more resilient to climate change
• Implement an ordinance that establishes energy use targets for commercial buildings over 25,000 sq feet and prescriptive measures for energy use for buildings that are 5,000-25,000 sq feet
• Buildings over 25,000 sq feet are required to assess and report their energy performance to Denver using theEnergy Star Portfolio Manager Tool
• Set interim targets to hit before 2030, like simple actions homeowners and businesses can take to reduce energy use

As you may know, ChicoBag is a member of Climate Neutral, an independent non-profit organization enlisting businesses and consumers to halt the effects of climate change. We’re proud to see organizations like the City and County of Denver taking accountability for their carbon emissions, and we congratulate Denver for taking a “little bit greener” step in a sustainable direction with their new Energize Denver initiative.

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