Mayor’s New Report Outlines 26 Building Decarb Recommendations

On October 13, the City of Chicago Mayor’s Office released the Building Decarbonization Working Group Report. The 26 equity-focused policy and program recommendations center on new construction design, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and building electrification. These recommendations set the course for bold building decarbonization action along with lowering the economic burden for residents and businesses.

Working Group members appointed by Mayor Lightfoot included several Illinois Green Alliance members as well as Illinois Green’s Executive Director Brian Imus and Associate Director Katie Kaluzny.  

Advancing these recommendations are critical to advance Illinois Green's mission of bringing net zero buildings to all communities in Illinois.

Recommendations include a City policy to phase out fossil fuel burning equipment in all new buildings and major renovations and the adoption of a Building Performance Standard for most existing buildings that establishes energy performance targets. In addition, there is a call to create a resource center to engage building owners and others in the building industry with technical assistance and guidance on financial resources to ensure successful and cost-effective implementation of the various policy recommendations.  

These recommendations not only will reduce pollution but are key to equitably improving the health and resiliency of every Chicago neighborhood. Even more meaningfully, these recommendations are truly community-based thanks to the inclusive and innovative working group process that considered perspectives from so many different stakeholders.”

Illinois Green is eager to engage our members into turning these recommendations into actions and policies. This report is a critical step forward in outlining the necessary steps for equitable and efficient buildings in all communities."