Smart retrofit options present the best opportunity to decarbonize our cities
In the face of escalating climate challenges, cities are increasingly recognizing the critical role they play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The built environment is responsible for approximately 40% of energy-related carbon emissions, making it a focal point for municipal leaders aiming to achieve sustainability goals.
And the urgency for action is real. According to the Department of Energy, emissions from U.S. buildings need to be reduced by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050 compared to 2005 levels to meet the broader strategy to achieve net zero emissions across the economy by 2050.
With the high cost and environmental impact of new construction, municipalities are realizing the immediate benefits of focusing on retrofitting existing buildings. This approach addresses the trifecta of cost, consumption, and carbon in the near-term while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable urban future.
The transformative power of retrofitting
Facility retrofits are a powerful strategy for decarbonization, allowing cities to leverage existing infrastructure while minimizing waste and resource consumption. These upgrades can significantly reduce energy use, operating costs, and scope 1 and 2 emissions, with energy efficiency measures saving an average of 25-30% of energy consumed. Efficiency also reduces the load on renewable energy resources.
Simple building envelope improvements, such as better insulation, sealing leaks, and installing energy-efficient windows, can reduce heating and cooling demands. Upgrading critical components like HVAC systems to high-efficiency models decreases a facility’s energy use intensity (EUI).
Adding smart building technologies enhances retrofitting efforts by optimizing energy use based on real-time occupancy patterns and environmental conditions, and digitalizing building systems helps cities measure progress towards consumption and decarbonization targets.
Replacing fossil fuel-based heating with electric alternatives, such as heat pumps, supports carbon reduction. Heat pumps are particularly advantageous as they provide both heating and cooling efficiently, utilizing renewable electricity sources.
Cities are developing comprehensive energy investment packages to generate savings and achieve higher greenhouse gas reductions. Transforming electricity supply to 100% renewable energy, producing renewable energy locally, and promoting electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are critical steps.
Prioritizing buildings and systems that can have the most meaningful impact is essential, often following the 80/20 rule: 80% of the overall impact can often be accomplished in 20% of the portfolio.
Embracing renewable energy supply
Integrating renewable energy sources is a key piece of the decarbonization puzzle, and arguably the most visible to constituents.
Many municipalities are working to install on-site solar systems to generate clean electricity. For buildings with limited space for solar installations, off-site solar options such as community solar programs or power purchase agreements provide viable alternatives. These initiatives allow cities to access renewable energy generated at larger facilities without the need for extensive on-site infrastructure. Often, city resources such as capped landfills or water treatment facilities can be beneficially used for these types of projects.
Battery energy storage systems (BESS) also play a crucial role in maximizing the benefits of renewable energy resources. By storing excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours for use during low production times or peak demand periods, BESS enhance the reliability and availability of zero carbon energy sources. Together, solar and storage can reduce cities’ reliance on fossil fuels, while fostering energy independence and resilience within the community.
This free resource provides a tangible roadmap for organizations looking to reduce their carbon footprint and achieve net zero emissions.
The built environment is responsible for roughly 40% of energy-related carbon emissions. This resource offers a holistic approach to cutting consumption, costs, and carbon and practical solutions for facility owners and operators.
What’s Inside this Guide?
- Climate Action in the Built Environment
- Achievable Net Zero Goals & Emission Reduction Levers
- Gaining Efficiency through Reduced Consumption
- Shifts in Thermal Energy & Renewable Electricity
- Assembling a Decarbonization Plan
Financing decarbonization
To accelerate the adoption of retrofits and clean energy supply, municipalities must create supportive financial environments that encourage investment in sustainability. Whenever possible, leveraging private sector investment can help deploy clean renewable energy, battery storage, electrification, and other efficiency and water conservation projects. Successful cities also engage their utility and state partners early in the process to secure incentive and grant funding for sustainability and electrification projects.
Offering green building incentives, tax breaks, or grants can motivate building owners to undertake these projects. Additionally, implementing energy performance standards for existing buildings can compel owners to prioritize upgrades that reduce emissions. Access to green financing options, such as Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs, enables property owners to finance energy efficiency upgrades through property taxes, making it easier to invest in necessary improvements without upfront costs.
For municipal infrastructure, public facilities can be upgraded using procurement structures like energy saving performance contracts (ESPC), where upgrades pay for themselves over the contract term. Another option is utilizing Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) models. Both are excellent choices when capital budgets are tight, but progress needs to continue.
A path forward
The path toward sustainable urban environments does not always require new construction; often, the most sustainable option is to reuse a structure that already exists. Through strategic retrofits and upgrades, cities can lead the way in addressing climate change while creating healthier and more resilient communities for future generations.
Get In Touch
Ameresco can help you design and implement a comprehensive plan to cut consumption, costs, and carbon within your existing facilities.
Get in touch today to get the conversation started. It’s time to take action!