Getting to Zero report cover Governor Patrick's Zero Net Energy Buildings (ZNEB) Task Force, made up of energy and building industry professionals, released Getting to Zero pdf format of Zero Net Energy Buildings (ZNEB) Task Force Report file size 5MB in March 2009. The report outlines 44 policy recommendations for new and existing buildings in the commercial and residential sectors. The Task Force's recommendations are designed to move the Commonwealth toward ZNEB construction by 2030. They fall into four broad categories:
  1. Establishment of minimum performance standards based on energy use per sq/ft
  2. Energy use benchmarking of all buildings
  3. Incentives to help address regulatory and financial barriers
  4. Workforce development and public education initiatives

Several policy actions are currently underway to advance zero net energy buildings:

  • Changes in the state's building code
  • Workforce development initiatives
  • Building labeling analysis
  • Design development of three prospective zero net energy state-owned demonstration projects, including the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Headquarters, North Shore Community College, Health and Student Services Building, and the Lowell Trial Court


This information is provided by the Department of Energy Resources.