Building performance standards (BPS) and building energy codes are two important strategies to decarbonize the built environment. While energy codes primarily address newly constructed buildings and, to a limited extent, existing buildings undergoing major upgrades such as additions and alternations, BPS specifically target existing buildings by setting emissions reduction goals that decrease over time.

This resource explores how several jurisdictions have successfully aligned their energy code updates with building performance standards, looking at both existing and new buildings. It will also discuss innovative approaches that can better align energy codes and BPS, including lessons learned from a conversation with Colorado’s Energy Office.

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