Zero Energy Building Pathway to 2035

Zero Energy Buildings (ZEBs) have the potential to serve as a strong contributor in helping Rhode Island meet its ‘Energy 2035, State Energy Plan’ Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reduction target. This whitepaper proposes a 20-year pathway toward zero energy residential, commercial and public buildings by establishing three over-arching recommendations: One: establish policies and legislation that supports ZEB goals to align with the GHG Emissions goals of Rhode Island; two: launch a state-wide ZEB Program (“Zero Energy RI”) across all building sectors; and three: enhance utility’s energy efficiency programs, and address integration between energy efficiency and renewable energy and grid modernization.