DOE rescinds definition of “zero emissions” buildings
A statement from The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Critical Minerals and Energy Innovation announced the rescission of its national definition of zero emissions buildings. Originally published by DOE in June of 2024, the definition established standards for energy efficiency, on-site emissions from energy use and consumption from “clean” energy sources. The previously directive is now archived.
When first adopted many in the industry including the American Institute of Architects (AIA) commended this decision. “The reuse of existing buildings is vital to overall emissions reductions as retrofits can save 50-70% of embodied carbon over new construction,” said the AIA in a statement.
The DOE said that the decision of rescinding the definition of zero emissions buildings , “This action lowers costs and promotes freedom of choice in the buildings sector by relieving developers, investors, and building owners of indirect pressure to account for federal guidelines that never had the force or effect of law.” The DOE also recommends that state and local government agencies and standard-setting bodies walk back guidelines according to the old directive. The full Federal Register Notice.
