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Buildings and facilities rely on mechanical and electrical systems to operate fixtures, equipment, and controls; deliver a thermally comfortable space; and maintain a high level of indoor environmental quality for occupants. Building operations consume approximately 40% of the energy and 74% of the electricity produced annually in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Any energy and electricity used in buildings that was generated through the combustion of fossil fuels also produces greenhouse gas or GHG emissions. These GHG emissions directly contribute to air pollution and climate change. Climate change mitigation requires the reduction of GHG emissions through strategies such as building decarbonization.
Net zero energy means consuming no more energy than is produced from renewable sources. Achieving a net zero energy building requires reducing energy use, increasing energy efficiency‚ replacing energy generated from fossil fuels with energy generated from zero-emission sources‚ and understanding the effects of energy technologies on the climate. For additional guidance on reducing energy consumption, see:
For more information, see DOE Federal Energy Management Program Federal New Buildings Handbook for Net Zero Energy, Water, and Waste.
Net zero emissions is a state where GHG emissions from resource consumption are completely balanced by removal efforts, resulting in no overall increase.
U.S. General Services Administration
