Tuesday Keynote — Revolutionary Codes: Bringing Net-Zero to Scale

This community has spent decades laying the groundwork for net-zero-energy buildings. Now we stand at an exciting turning point, as the technologies and approaches we have long fought for are beginning to enter the mainstream and even be written into building codes. The 2023 Massachusetts Stretch Code makes ultra-low-energy buildings mandatory, and functions as the platform for net-zero and fossil-fuel-free regulations for forward-thinking cities and towns throughout the state. This is a moment worth celebrating, as well as an opportunity to spark similar initiatives in other states, and to dream big about where we are headed next. If net-zero operational energy can become the norm, can we not make similar progress on issues like embodied carbon, resiliency, and equity? Our field is capable of great things, and we believe that anything is possible.

Session Speaker(s): 

Session Chair(s): 

Event Time: 

Tuesday, March 28, 2023 - 9:00am to 10:00am

Room / Location:
Harbor 1-3

CEU Information: 

Approved for 1 credit hour toward AIA (LU), BOC, BPI, GBCI (BD+C, ID+C), and NARI certification. Credit is offered for each full conference day toward MA CSL, PHI, Phius, and RESNET certification.

Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the basics of the Massachusetts Stretch Code and its role in the building decarbonization movement
  • Use the Stretch Code to inform your own building practice
  • Advocate for net zero code initiatives in other states
  • Apply lessons from stretch code development to other important building industry regulatory issues

Session ID: 

BOS23-901