Policy Brief: Stretch Codes
To comply with one of the mandates in the historic 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), Illinois has undergone the process of working with energy efficiency experts and stakeholders to develop residential and commercial stretch energy codes. As of early 2024, the drafted stretch codes are ready for state approval. Stretch codes set much more aggressive energy…
Read MoreWelcome from our 2024 Board Chair
2023 was a landmark year for Illinois Green Alliance and net zero buildings. In 2024, it is critical we seize the next opportunity to grow our impact! Last year with your help, Illinois Green Alliance’s events and programs reached over 4,000 people. We redoubled our efforts to advocate for building decarbonization policy – including pitching…
Read MoreMeet Illinois Green’s 2023 Outstanding Volunteers
We are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023 Outstanding Volunteer Awards! These six volunteers have gone above and beyond in their work with Illinois Green. They will be receiving their awards in-person at the 2024 Annual Meeting on February 8th. Click here to register! We asked each recipient to tell us a little…
Read MoreChicago to Introduce Clean and Affordable Buildings Ordinance
CHICAGO – Today, at a press conference at City Hall, Alderwoman Maria Hadden of Chicago’s 49th ward announced that Mayor Brandon Johnson will be introducing an ordinance at Wednesday’s City Council meeting to set decarbonization measures for all newly constructed or majorly renovated buildings. “Too many Chicagoans are having trouble paying their gas bills, and…
Read MoreNet Zero Building Case Study: Countryside Municipal Complex
Learn about the net zero Countryside Municipal Complex
Read MoreA Letter from our Executive Director – Celebrating 2023
Dear valued partner, The progress this past year makes me more excited than ever about our big bold vision to decarbonize every building in Illinois. There has been unprecedented momentum in making Illinois a recognized national leader in net zero building design, technology, and operations. My optimism is rooted in the amazing community of members,…
Read MoreWelcoming Our New Board Members
This year the Illinois Green Alliance Board Elections Committee are pleased to present the results of this year’s Board of Directors elections. The Board of Directors guides Illinois Green’s strategic vision — to make net zero buildings feasible, affordable, and so commonplace that every building in Illinois by 2050 is net zero. Illinois Green welcomes…
Read More18th Annual Emerald Awards for Green Building in Illinois Announced
2023 Awardees Highlight the Impact of Net Zero Action on Communities Chicago, IL — Illinois Green Alliance announced the recipients of this year’s Emerald Awards, dubbed the 2023 Path to Zero Trailblazers, for their ongoing efforts to mainstream net zero buildings in Illinois. The Illinois Green Alliance Emerald Awards were launched in 2008 to celebrate…
Read MoreHow One Illinois Foundation Catalyzed Net Zero Building Growth
By: Sam Stevens, Communications Intern The Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF)’s net zero energy building grant has played a significant role in driving the growth of net zero energy buildings in the state of Illinois in the last decade. However, with the grant’s resources ending, it is essential to explore and create alternative funding…
Read MoreState Board Calls for Green Ribbon Schools Applications
Green Ribbon Schools Program Seeks to Highlight Illinois’s Schools and Districts Commitment to Environmental Education and Sustainability SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is proud to announce the launch of the application process for the 2023-24 Illinois Green Ribbon Schools Award. This program is designed to recognize and celebrate the unwavering commitment…
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