DoE Seeks Comment on Definition for Zero Emissions Buildings

In this climate-conscious world, builders and developers are expected to do their part by improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions from the structures they build. But how exactly to define the criteria to meet these goals has been a source of confusion and conflicting regulations that vary from state to state.

Now the U.S. Department of Energy has issued a draft definition for the term “Zero Emissions Buildings” (ZEB) that is intended to clarify the matter. It is inviting comment by February 5 from industry and other stakeholders through a request for information published in the Federal Register. The definition, when finalized, is intended to “serve as a clear market signal and consistent target, backed by measurable data, to help move the building sector to zero emissions.”