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Colorado’s Building Performance Standards

August.30.2024

Colorado’s Building Performance Standards

August.30.2024

Many jurisdictions have building codes and standards detailing the requirements for clean buildings. While some of these rules are mandatory, others are optional but important. Architects, builders, and building owners must understand these guidelines and how it impacts their activities.

The Colorado energy performance laws provide mandatory minimum performance standards for commercial buildings. Various cities and localities also have ordinances related to green buildings. Besides helping combat climate change, implementing these guidelines can be economically beneficial. Green buildings generally use less energy. Property owners may also qualify for government incentives such as tax credits and funding.

This guide discusses the building emissions performance standards and their relevance. It also addresses strategies for integrating renewable energy solutions and compliance tips. The purpose is to guide you into making informed decisions.

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What Are Clean Building Performance Standards?

Clean building performance standards (CBPS) are rules and guidelines aimed at reducing buildings’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from buildings. In other words, they are the standards for improving a building’s energy efficiency and sustainability. CBPS addresses building design, including windows, insulation, and indoor air quality. Some standards address the materials used in constructing the structure. Other features like energy sources, water conservation, and appliances are also integral. The scope of CBPS is broad, with the central goal of making buildings eco-friendly.

What Are Clean Building Performance Standards?

CBPS compliance can reduce facilities’ energy usage and environmental impact. It can also decrease the building’s operating costs while improving comfort. Commercial building owners and managers can save on utility bills. Occupants benefit from qualities like excellent ventilation and lightning.

CBPS helps combat climate change by reducing the building’s carbon footprints. The standards usually vary across jurisdictions, but they have a common purpose. There are federal, state, and international standards, each with different legal effects. Some localities also have clean building codes.

The Building Performance Standards in Colorado

Two forms of clean performance standards exist in Colorado:

Legislation

The General Assembly of Colorado passed the Energy Performance Bill in June 2021 to address GHG emissions from buildings in the state. The law created a task force to recommend building standards. These standards enable commercial building owners to upgrade their assets, reduce operating costs, and contribute to the state’s climate goals. The rules took effect in October 2023.

The Energy Performance for Buildings statute or House Bill 21-1246 requires persons who own commercial, public buildings, or multifamily buildings — 50,000 square feet or larger — to benchmark the property’s energy use each year. The owners must also set building performance targets within that period. The goal is to reduce sector-wide emissions. The state-wide target is a 7% reduction by 2026 and 20% by 2023 from the 2021 level. Benchmarking means tracking and measuring energy use in the building.

The Colorado building performance program helps building owners understand and track energy usage. They can assess the building’s energy performance compared to similar properties. It also helps them identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and cut GHG pollution. The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) has developed technical guidance detailing:

  1. The requirements for green building
  2. Strategies for compliance
  3. Approaches to reducing energy use and carbon emissions.

In addition to the state-wide legislation, some localities and cities have adopted green building guidelines. One classic example is the Denver city council’s building performance standards. Unlike its state counterpart, the ordinance applies to commercial and multifamily buildings 25,000 square feet and larger.

Model Code and Rating Systems

Several organizations have developed model codes or rating systems relating to green buildings. Some of these standards are mandatory, but others are optional:

  • International Green Construction Code (IgCC): The IgCC model code is mandatory. It applies to the construction or alteration of industrial and commercial buildings. IgCC focuses on materials, emissions, and energy and water efficiency.
  • Green Globes: This is a voluntary rating and certification system for commercial properties. It applies to new constructions and modifications to existing buildings. Green Globes focuses on materials and resource use, indoor environmental quality, and energy efficiency.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): This is a voluntary rating and certification system for all building types. It applies to new constructions and existing buildings. LEED focuses on energy and water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, emissions and operations and maintenance.

The Importance of Energy Efficiency in Building Design

Energy efficiency is vital in building designs for the following reasons:

Environmental Impact

Commercial buildings account for a significant portion of global energy consumption and GHG emissions. When you design your buildings to become energy-efficient, you reduce the carbon footprint. This helps you mitigate the building’s contribution to climate change.

Resource Conservation

Green buildings generally use resources more efficiently. They reduce the strain on natural resources such as water and fossil fuels during construction and operation. Using renewable energy and conserving natural resources are essential for long-term sustainability.

Cost Savings

Energy-efficient buildings usually have lower operating costs because of the reduced energy consumption. Incorporating green designs and using energy-saving equipment allows you to save on utility. Green buildings are a long-term investment.

Besides reducing energy consumption, property owners who invest in green buildings may also qualify for government incentives like tax credits and deductions.

Improved Comfort

Green building designs can enable consistent indoor temperatures and air quality. They are usually more comfortable, which makes customers stay longer. Features like proper insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and other energy-saving measures can contribute to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment.

Resilience

Green commercial buildings are often resilient to power outages and fluctuations in energy prices. Features like passive solar design, backup power sources, and energy storage systems let buildings remain operational during disruptions.

Market Value

Energy-efficient buildings are in high demand. People are prioritizing sustainability and energy savings. Buildings with high energy efficiency ratings often command higher resale values and attract tenants looking for environmentally friendly and cost-effective properties. Commercial properties hiring out spaces can take advantage of this development.

Strategies for Renewable Energy Integration

There are several methods for incorporating renewable energy sources into green building designs. Common energy sources include solar, wind, and geothermal:

  • Solar: Solar is one of the most reliable renewable energy sources today. Commercial building owners are investing in innovative solar solutions to replace or supplement their current energy supplies. One typical example is installing solar panels on protection structures in car parks and auto dealerships. These innovations enable property owners to solve a pressing need while ensuring CBPS compliance. Additionally, they can leverage federal solar tax credits to reduce their tax liability.
  • Wind: Wind energy does not emit GHGs. They collect and convert the kinetic energy that the wind produces into electrical power. Most commercial property owners are integrating wind turbines to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. By harnessing wind energy, they can generate clean, renewable electricity, helping them meet the integration requirements of the CBPS.
  • Geothermal: Geothermal heat pumps are eco-friendly and efficient. They produce lower GHGs than traditional heating and cooling systems and usually save more energy. Different types of geothermal heat pumps exist, including ground loop and open loop options. Commercial property owners who use these systems may qualify for federal tax credits like solar energy systems.

Compliance With Colorado’s Building Performance Standards

There are several steps you can take to achieve CPBS compliance. Here is a guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Understand the Standards

Review the specific building performance standards that apply to the project. Understand the requirements for sustainable building designs and operations, such as materials and energy efficiency. This insight will guide the rest of your compliance strategy.

2. Assess and Plan

Conduct an assessment of your building, considering the energy-efficiency metrics and benchmarks. Examples of metrics include energy use intensity (EUI) and performance ratings. It also helps to consider voluntary rating systems like LEED. Then, develop a plan outlining the necessary changes and upgrades to achieve compliance so you can create an internal policy with realistic targets.

3. Design the Project

Work with professionals like architects and engineers to incorporate the necessary design elements and technologies. Ensure the design aligns with the standards. If you have a policy, strive to achieve the performance targets.

4. Choose Sustainable Materials

Choose environmentally friendly building materials that meet the standards. This strategy helps you contribute to a more sustainable building. Consider factors such as recycled content, durability, and energy efficiency when selecting materials.

5. Construct or Install

Whether constructing or installing a new building, you must ensure the project meets the specifications. Implement the plan by taking sustainable solutions into account.

6. Test and Commission

Tests and commissioning activities are conducted to verify that the building or structure is operating as intended. This process lets you identify shortfalls. Remember to address any issues or deficiencies to meet the performance standards.

7. Document and Report

Keep detailed records of the building performance data and test results. You’ll need them to meet the annual benchmarking requirement under Colorado state law. Submit the required document to the regulatory body or certification authority if you comply with any of the voluntary programs.

8. Monitor and Maintain

Continue to monitor and maintain the building to ensure optimal performance. The benchmarking requirement is done annually, so the building and its structures must be in the best condition. Implement a maintenance plan to keep building systems operating efficiently.

Collaborating for a Sustainable Future

Local government officials, builders, architects, and property owners can collaborate in several ways to enhance building performance:

  • Education and training: Workshops, seminars, and training sessions on sustainable design and construction can enhance skills and knowledge. Local officials can support these programs, keeping builders and property owners updated on the latest regulations and technologies.
  • Incentive programs: Local governments can create incentive programs like tax breaks, rebates, and fast-track green building permits. These incentives can encourage builders and property owners to prioritize building performance in their projects.
  • Green building certification programs: Encouraging stakeholders to pursue green building certifications like LEED can promote sustainable design and construction practices. Local government can support these efforts by providing resources and guidance on achieving certification.
  • Collaborative designs: Bringing stakeholders together for collaborative designs can foster innovative solutions for enhancing building performance. This approach can lead to holistic design strategies, addressing the environmental and functional aspects of construction.

The Role of Energy Consultants in Facilitating Compliance and Innovation

Energy consultants facilitate compliance with energy regulations and innovation in many ways:

1. Energy Audits and Assessments

Energy consultants can conduct energy audits and assessments. This process enables them to identify opportunities for energy savings and efficiency improvements. The audit reports can also recommend cost-effective measures to reduce energy consumption. This proactive approach can help property owners save money and protect the environment.

2. Technology Integration

Energy consultants can leverage their knowledge of technology trends to recommend and implement innovative green solutions. These solutions may include smart, energy storage, and renewable energy systems. These strategies can help commercial property owners optimize energy usage.

3. Financial Analysis

Some energy consultants can assess the return on investment (ROI) of energy efficiency projects. Quantifying the potential savings and benefits of energy updates can help building owners make informed decisions. Building owners can determine the options and the best way to invest in energy-efficient solutions.

Why VPS Is Your Ideal Clean Energy Partner

Why VPS Is Your Ideal Clean Energy Partner

VPS provides the best energy-efficient solutions in the covered parking industry. Here are seven secrets to our success:

  • Experience: VPS has years of experience providing energy-efficient solutions to various industries. We know the best ways to reduce costs and maximize efficiency while meeting regulatory requirements.
  • Expertise: VPS has well-equipped professionals with knowledge in the industry. We have worked on complex, high-profile projects and can bring that expertise to your doorstep.
  • Resources and capabilities: VPS is a highly resourced and efficient company. We provide end-to-end solutions, from initial survey and design to engineering, construction, and management.
  • Quality: VPS offers the best in terms of product durability. We leverage advanced technology in manufacturing protection structures. All products are made of high-quality materials.
  • Effective processes: VPS has developed a unique process to give clients value for money. We deliver in diverse areas, including cost analysis, feasibility studies, municipality requirement negotiations, and construction.
  • Innovative solutions: VPS is dedicated to providing functional and energy-efficient solutions. Our hail protection structures are a reflection of outstanding creativity and engineering.
  • Exceptional services: VPS understands the essence of excellent client relations. We deliver world-class services at every step, helping customers with their pressing needs.

Elevating Building Standards With VPS

Architects, builders, and commercial property owners in Colorado must comply with the Energy Performance rules. These laws and standards enable stakeholders to reduce GHG emissions. Most companies also participate due to the numerous economic benefits. The biggest challenge is finding partners capable of implementing innovative solutions to improve building performance.

VPS has been the market leader in covered parking for over 30 years. Our hail protection structures with solar panels serve a multifunctional purpose, protecting vehicles and providing renewable energy solutions. We have trained specialists who are ready to work with you to develop personalized products. VPS has worked with the largest automotive companies and can help you solve your problems. Do you want to learn more or speak to an expert? Contact us today!

Elevating Building Standards With VPS

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