B12- Evaluate and consider a Zero Net Energy (ZNE) code for all new buildings and substantial renovations by 2030.

Evaluate and consider a Zero Net Energy (ZNE) code for all new buildings and substantial renovations by 2030.

ZNE buildings have a high-efficiency design that minimizes energy demand and produce as much energy as they consume over the course of a year. To guide energy efficiency in new construction and renovations, Dallas adopts and implements building codes, including the IECC.

Achieving ZNE construction in the near-term will help to avoid emissions lock-in from continued development of fossil fuel-dependent buildings. The City will evaluate its options to adopt different building energy codes in the future, if IECC updates do not to provide a pathway toward ZNE buildings. The City will consider alternative code options to achieve ZNE objectives, such as Architecture 2030’s Zero Code. The City will aim to implement a ZNE building code starting in 2030 for new construction and will identify ways to incentivize, early voluntary achievement of this goal. The City will identify incentives for new development and to assist existing older buildings that undergo substantial renovations to transition away from natural gas.

The City will also promote the concept of net zero neighborhoods to achieve the goals of this action on a larger scale. The City will work with developers and home builders to identify potential opportunities for pilot sites. For example, redevelopment of the Hensley Field Site can be considered an opportunity to develop a carbon neutral district where buildings are designed and constructed to achieve ZNE standards, including development of in-district renewable energy systems. This project could then serve as a best practice example of Dallas’ leadership and innovation, and as a demonstration project for other Dallas area developments to highlight the feasibility and lessons learned.