Skip to content

Resource Library

Building Performance Standards Are A Powerful New Tool in the Fight Against Climate Change 

Download

Overview

Read the fact sheet which lays out the basics of building performance standards, new mandatory policies that require building owners to meet performance targets by actively improving the energy performance of their building over time.

In the U.S., buildings account for more than 70% of electricity usage and 29% of gas consumption. The math is clear: Climate goals that depend on reducing carbon emissions can only be achieved at scale with significant advancements in building energy efficiency. A new type of policy, a building performance standard (or BPS), is the most powerful tool cities have to drive this change. This two-page fact sheet lays out the basics of building performance standards, new mandatory policies that require building owners to meet performance targets by actively improving the energy performance of their building over time. Readers will learn the basics of what a building performance standard is, as well as the high-impact local outcomes that can be gained through a well-designed standard.

Updated March 2020.

An expert in this evolution of building performance policy, Institute for Market Transformation (IMT) is on the ground helping cities explore, develop and execute these policies. Along the way, they are producing a range of helpful guidance documents for those interested in exploring this next step in climate action. 

Learn more at www.imt.org/bps

Download attached PDF.

Related Resources

Hyperlink icon to reveal a BPA Resource Video

1950s Home Retrofit to Super Efficient Passive House 

Watch to learn about a 1950s Montreal house that was retrofitted to become an efficient passive house by adding a 16 inch thick layer of cellulose insulation to the exterior.

Hyperlink icon to reveal a BPA Resource Video

BPA & Service Year Alliance: AmeriCorps Capacity – Building Opportunity Webinar

In this webinar, we provide an in-depth overview of AmeriCorps State and National Programming, uncovering available resources for weatherization and clean energy agencies.

Hyperlink icon to reveal a BPA Resource Video

The Interconnected House 

Watch as Energy Circle installs a basement subfloor after a series of problems related to gutters, roof, foundation, and insulation.