Join Illinois Green Alliance for our first-ever Getting to Zero Tech Forum. This comprehensive new event format will feature a collection of five-minute, fast-paced presentations by a diverse array of industry experts, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in building technology that drive sustainable and regenerative approaches to the design, construction, and operation of the built environment.
Following these flash talks, all presenters will join attendees at networking tables, offering the opportunity for engaging discussions over food and drinks about the future of building science and the possibilities for cross-sector collaboration.
September 25, 2025
1:00pm - 8:00pm CT
mHUB Chicago
2025 Forum Agenda
Event Agenda:
- 1:00 | Doors Open
- 1:30 | Welcoming Remarks & Opening Plenary
- 2:00 | 5-Minute Lightning Presentations
- See digital program here.
- 3:00 | Networking Break
- 3:30 | 5-Minute Lightning Presentations
- See digital program here.
- 4:30 | Closing Panel
- 5:00 | Networking Break
- 5:45 | Emerald Awards Ceremony
- 6:15 | Limelight Reception
- 8:00 | Event Concludes
Who will be there?
Presenting: Cutting edge manufacturers, building product companies, green technology firms, utilities, contractors, building scientists, engineers, designers, and other innovators.
Check out the digital program of our presenters below!
Attending: 200 leading architects, engineers, building owners, operators, contractors, manufacturers, utilities, sustainability consultants, investors, lenders, and more.
2025 Digital Program
See below who is presenting at this year's Tech Forum!
Making Windows Energy Efficient
Learn how advances in nano technology can enhance the energy performance of windows and transparent substrates in both monolithic form and insulated units for both glass and Polymeric substrates.
NxLite makes advanced energy control coatings for windows and window like substrates. Our coatings are designed to keep the heat outside in the summer and cold outside in the winter. Our chemistry is based on earth abundant environmentally friendly materials and are lower cost. We are the only company in the world that offers a solar coating that is open air stable. This means we do not oxidize or corrode when exposed to oxygen. Lastly, we are the only company in the world that can provide energy coatings on Polymeric substrates like PMMA (acrylic) and Polycarbonate.
Mass Timber for the Masses: Sterling Structural’s Modular Approach to Smarter, Sustainable Infrastructure
Discover how Sterling Structural is redefining the future of construction through innovation, sustainability, and scalability. This session will provide an overview of Sterling’s repeatable modular mass timber solutions designed to make advanced building systems more accessible, cost-effective, and efficient. Backed by a legacy of trusted site access solutions, Sterling brings a unique perspective to integrating modular timber with infrastructure development—driving performance, sustainability, and impact at every scale.
Sterling Structural is dedicated to providing a sustainable, affordable mass timber option for the construction industry. Our TerraLam® CLT panels offer a new approach to floors and ceilings with a simplified, streamlined and cost-competitive product line. Sterling Structural looks forward to supporting adoption of CLT solutions by making Mass Timber’s benefits more accessible to the wider AEC community.
Dynamic Closed Loop:
Drilling Into Aquifer Geothermal Systems to Decarbonize
Geothermal heat pump systems offer some of the highest building HVAC efficiencies & lowest total life cycle costs but implementation is challenging due to the added cost & land needed for a geothermal bore field. Learn how Dynamic Closed Loop Geothermal systems offer a unique and proven technology that can help address these geothermal challenges.
McCotter Energy Systems provides Boiler Room, HVAC and Plumbing Solutions that are uniquely designed to provide reliability to the clients we serve in Wisconsin, Illinois and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We have a long history of providing high efficiency HVAC solutions to our customers. We continually learn about the latest technologies in order to provide the best equipment for each application. We partner with manufacturers who share the same values. Our Manufacturer, DCL Geoenergy was born under the premise of sustainability, respect for the environment and the fight against climate change. DCL Geoenergy is based in Castellon, Spain and has over 600 geothermal probe installations world wide.
Automated Air Leak Sealing for Envelopes & HVAC Ductwork
An overview of Aeroseal’s two air sealing technology solutions, and the critical role they play in creating better, more sustainable buildings with less carbon impact will be presented – AeroBarrier building envelope air sealing and Aeroseal duct sealing. How these solutions deliver Guaranteed Air Sealing Made Easy while increasing energy efficiency, health, comfort, and resilience will be illustrated. Both solutions will be defined, along with their key benefits, how and why they work, the types of projects sealed, and a brief case study will be shared. Attendees will also learn how these air sealing solutions solve real world challenges in the projects they design, engineer, and build.
Aeroseal provides proven air leak sealing solutions for both building envelopes and HVAC ductwork - Guaranteed Air Sealing Made Easy. AeroBarrier’s building envelope sealing technology is an automated and blower door directed solution that seals air leaks from the inside of the building or home via an interior at higher pressure, meets any air tightness requirement you have, eliminates the accuracy and consistency issues of manual sealing, and runs a continuous blower door test while sealing to verify your air leakage reduction goal is met before our installer leaves your job site.
Practical Strategies for Embodied
Carbon Reduction in Structural Design
This presentation explores effective and accessible methods for reducing embodied carbon in structural systems. Beginning with a brief overview of the significance of embodied carbon, the presentation introduces two actionable strategies that extend beyond the conventional wisdom of simply considering material minimization and emerging technologies. These approaches are illustrated through case studies from Arup’s portfolio, demonstrating their successful application across diverse project types. Emphasis is placed on techniques that are broadly applicable, require minimal design disruption, and can be readily adopted to support sustainability goals in the built environment.
Arup is a global collective of designers, engineers, and consultants dedicated to shaping a better world through the built environment, with expertise across more than 150 disciplines. As a founding signatory of the SE 2050 Commitment Program, Arup’s structural engineers lead the profession in demonstrating low embodied carbon designs. Their work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and reflects a deep commitment to creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure worldwide.
Ozinga Carbonsense Low Carbon Cement and Concrete
Ozinga developed a series of lower embodied carbon concrete mixtures and ASTM C1157 blended cements for use in nearly any application. By utilizing design of experiment analysis in conjunction with ConcreteAI, Ozinga has successfully reduced the typical time-to-market normally seen in most emerging technologies. These innovative designs and blended cements can offer up to an 84 percent reduction from the NRMCA Regional Baselines in some markets.
Established in 1928 in Evergreen Park, Illinois, as a small coal and coke yard, Ozinga survived the Great Depression and World War II before becoming one of the first ready mix providers in the region. For four generations, we have continuously expanded our product and service offerings to faithfully meet the needs of builders throughout Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and South Florida while holding to our longstanding commitment to provide it all at a fair price. Today we provide concrete, bulk materials, and energy solutions while offering transportation services through an extensive network of truck, rail, barge, and ship terminals. Perhaps best recognized for our red and white striped concrete mixer trucks, Ozinga is proud to be an American-owned, fourth-generation family business serving the communities where we live, work and play.
Rooting Safety Science in Sustainability: Data-Driven Approaches to Standards Development with Sustainability at the Forefront
UL Standards & Engagement (ULSE) operates at the intersection of safety science and sustainability. We make climate-related hazards both visible and addressable by combining expertise from engineering, architecture, technical writing, and data science. This approach is strengthened by our connections to safety testing (UL Solutions), research (UL Research Institutes), and our own standards development and advocacy work. Despite challenges such as limited historical data and complex cause-effect relationships, our hazard assessment protocols evaluate sustainability issues with the same rigor as traditional fire and electrical safety concerns. Our presentation will demonstrate how ULSE creates structured sustainability analyses that enable decision-makers to develop standards for products, buildings, and processes with climate impact as a core consideration.
UL Standards & Engagement is a global safety organization that protects you by developing and advocating for standards that keep products, services, and systems safe. Like instruction manuals, these standards provide safety guidelines for product designers, manufacturers, and testing companies.
The Sun Will Come Out...Tomorrow?
The solar industry is used to the "solar coaster" as it is known: the constant on-again, off-again relationship the industry has with government regulation and policy. After years of uncertainty, there was a brief moment of certainty provided by the Inflation Reduction Act that seemed to push solar and other renewables onto a steadier and more reliable path. That all ended this year with the talk of tariffs and with the passing of the Big Beautiful Bill. We find ourselves back on the solar coaster, and where will it lead? There's lots of conjecture, so Windfree will provide our take on it and how you can best leverage solar to meet your clean energy and zero-energy building goals.
At Windfree Solar, we believe that everyone should have the ability to harness clean, renewable energy from the sun. A premier commercial and residential solar installer, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois since 2009, Windfree Solar provides first-class design, development, and installation services. Beyond being a full-service solar installation company, Windfree Solar is a leading battery storage and electric vehicle charging station installer and developer. At Windfree Solar, we are proud to be a certified Minority Owned Business (MBE), as well as a certified Equity Eligible Contractor (EEC).
Yesterday's Wishlist, Today's Technology
A short story of how the technology of today could have greatly advantaged net zero pursuits of the past.
Trane Technologies is a global climate innovator that specializes in sustainable solutions for buildings, homes, and transportation. The company focuses on creating efficient and environmentally friendly heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems, building technology, and refrigeration solutions. Trane's products and services aim to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Net-Zero as Easy as Taking Out the Trash: The Carbon Dumpster for Building Retrofits
Electrification is the gold standard for decarbonizing buildings, but many properties face cost, reliability, and retrofit barriers that stall progress. Sandbox Carbon is developing the Carbon Dumpster™—a modular, on-premises system that connects to boilers, furnaces, generators, and other small sources of emissions and scrubs up to 90% of COâ‚‚ and smog pollutants from the exhaust. When full, the unit is picked up just like trash or recycling. This “waste management for air pollution” model offers building owners a practical, affordable path to net-zero, particularly for retrofits in cold climates where electrification isn’t yet feasible.
Sandbox Carbon is developing the Carbon Dumpster™, the next generation of waste management services for air pollution. The system connects directly to furnaces, boilers, generators, and other small to medium emitters, capturing up to 90% of COâ‚‚ along with smog-forming pollutants such as NOâ‚“, SOâ‚“, and particulates. Captured emissions are directly converted into stable solids, which are collected and serviced off-site using the same logistics model as trash or recycling. By making emissions reduction a routine service, the Carbon Dumpster provides a more cost-effective and resilient alternative to electrification.
Next Steps In The Decarbonization Journey
Over the past 25 years, the Built Environment has made significant strides towards delivering sustainable buildings. Our next challenge is accelerating the journey toward decarbonization, particularly through building systems. This session will explore opportunities to drive better outcomes through design, construction, and operation of buildings.
Founded in 2002, dbHMS is a minority-owned engineering design firm dedicated to delivering high-performance, sustainable building solutions. Through an integrated studio approach, encompassing MEPFP, lighting, IT, energy modeling, and commissioning, the firm is able to maximize efficiency and performance for it's clients.
The Patented Path to Energy Efficiency and Net Zero
This professional presentation introduces AuditMaster Pro (AMP), a patented, real-time HVAC testing and optimization platform that redefines building performance. Through technical precision, standardized testing, and field-proven results, AMP demonstrates how buildings of any scale can achieve maximum energy efficiency, reduced utility costs, and measurable carbon reductions. The slides walk decision-makers through the challenges of today’s energy landscape, showcase AMP’s patented solution, highlight industry-standard tools and non-invasive testing methods, and provide independent proof of savings at iconic buildings such as Willis Tower and One O’Hare Center. The presentation also emphasizes AMP’s role in training the next generation of technicians through partnerships with leading colleges and Illinois’ CEJA program, reinforcing that AMP is not only a tool for optimization but also a driver of workforce development and equitable clean energy access.
AuditMaster Pro (AMP) delivers patented HVAC energy optimization tools that empower building owners, engineers, architects, and contractors to achieve lasting efficiency and sustainability. Designed to streamline energy studies, testing, and balancing, AMP Software simplifies complex HVAC projects with a standardized, code-compliant template that can be completed in under two minutes. Our platform embeds plan specs, legal protections, and advanced algorithms to identify and resolve system inefficiencies—ensuring every project meets the highest performance standards. AMP also provides contractor training, bridging the gap between design intent and field execution while promoting clear communication and measurable results. From facility managers to energy professionals, AMP helps reduce operational costs and carbon impact while preserving system integrity across every building type.
Geothermal Everywhere,
Even In Urban Areas
Darcy Solutions provides a geothermal technology that affords up to 70x the thermal capacity as compared to traditional geothermal systems. Now you can do geothermal in urban areas.
Darcy Solutions is a provider of state of the art geothermal solutions that support the built environment. Windy City Representatives provides engineered HVAC equipment solutions for the built environment in the Midwest by partnering with cutting edge manufacturers.
The Next Generation of Sustainable Solar Modules
The solar industry is at a turning point: from panels that were once considered “green by themselves,” to a future where carbon footprint and material circularity define true sustainability. This presentation will highlight how Solarge has reinvented solar panel manufacturing with lightweight, fully recyclable, toxin-free modules that deliver up to 80% lower COâ‚‚ emissions. Attendees will learn how these innovations unlock new applications—from rooftops previously unsuitable for heavy glass panels, to floating and façade markets—while addressing the looming waste challenge of conventional solar. With production established in Europe and plans for a U.S. factory, Solarge is bringing the world’s most sustainable, domestically produced solar modules to market.
Solarge is a Dutch solar module manufacturer pioneering the world’s most sustainable panels. Solarge produces lightweight modules (50% lighter than glass) that are fully recyclable, unbreakable, and free from toxic materials such as antimony and PFAS. With an up to 80% lower carbon footprint, these panels are designed for commercial & industrial rooftops, as well as emerging markets like floating solar and facades. Solarge operates its factory in the Netherlands, and is now building its U.S. facility to produce the world’s most sustainable solar modules with the highest percentage of US-domestic content.
Reducing Gas Use and Carbon Emissions for Centrally Heated and Cooled Properties
Runwise implements robust sensor networks throughout occupied spaces and mechanical components for centrally heated and cooled buildings. With realtime data from the sensor network, and future weather integration, Runwise is able to reduce usage of systems and fuel by 21% on average.
Runwise is the nation's leading smart building control platform. The system is installed in over 10,000 buildings across the country, and reduces energy costs and fossil fuel usage by an average of 21%, while making tenants safer and more comfortable.
The Power of Perspective:
Shaping Environmental Futures Through Collaboration
The presentation will highlight Sloan's commitment to integrating decarbonization into our design and promoting the sustainable long-term use of our products through smart building technology. Furthermore, we have proactively strengthened our collaborative initiatives, reinforcing our position as a trusted leader in the field of water sustainability.
Every day around the world, Sloan products connect the systems that manage our planet’s most precious resource. As the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial plumbing systems, we’ve spent more than a century pioneering smart, water-saving restroom solutions that are built to last a lifetime. Sloan continues to build a global brand synonymous with sustainability, energy conservation, and water-efficient products, featuring green innovations such as solar-powered technologies and all-in-one sink systems. It also ups its game by expanding beyond the restroom with bottle fillers that improve water quality for patrons.
Best Practices to Accelerate the Deployment of
Geo-exchange Systems
Geothermal geo-exchange is a proven, scalable solution for decarbonizing buildings and campuses, but successful deployment requires thoughtful planning and execution. This session will share best practices from Geosource Energy’s over two decades of experience designing and constructing high-performance geothermal systems across North America. Attendees will learn strategies to integrate geo-exchange systems into existing and new buildings, de-risk project delivery, optimize system and borefield design (including vertical and angled solutions), and ensure construction is properly executed.
Geosource Energy is a leading geothermal drilling and borefield installation firm advancing the clean energy transition through the design and construction of high-performance thermal energy systems. Founded in Canada in 2004, Geosource has delivered some of North America’s largest building decarbonization projects and launched U.S. operations in 2022 to serve the rapidly growing Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets. A recognized leader in vertical and angled drilling for geothermal systems, Geosource differentiates itself with custom built equipment and proprietary processes that de-risk geothermal construction for retrofits and new build applications. These innovations ensure reliable, efficient, and scalable solutions that help buildings and campuses achieve their net-zero carbon goals.
Decarbonizing Our Iconic Buildings
Our most cherished landmarks are cultural testaments, yet they pose a great challenge in the global push for decarbonization. It is a complex goal of preserving our architectural heritage while adapting these structures for a sustainable future. We will explore the unique hurdles in retrofitting historic buildings, from navigating preservation regulations to implementing modern, energy-efficient technologies without compromising historical integrity. This presentation will discuss innovative strategies and cutting-edge materials making it possible to sensitively upgrade these iconic structures.
Established in 2012, Cyclone Energy Group is a Chicago-based consulting firm at the forefront of creating high-performance, energy-efficient commercial buildings. They provide a comprehensive suite of services that span the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction to ongoing operations. Their expertise includes advanced commissioning and testing, sophisticated energy and performance modeling, and guidance on a wide array of sustainability certifications, including LEED and WELL. Cyclone Energy Group is also a leader in the growing field of decarbonization, helping clients with carbon accounting and creating actionable roadmaps to achieve carbon neutrality. What truly sets them apart is not just their technical expertise, but their collaborative culture. They are dedicated to knowledge-sharing and community involvement, ensuring they are not just service providers, but true partners in building a sustainable future.
Enhancing Multi Family, Community and District Energy Geothermal Systems with Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) Technology
Wastewater energy is a predictable, inexhaustible and renewable source of clean energy for both heating & cooling buildings. Learn about how Wastewater Energy Transfer (WET) is changing the game for Geothermal projects, reducing CapEx & OpEx using the forgotten power of wastewater.
SHARC Energy, based in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, designs and manufactures wastewater energy transfer (WET) systems. By capturing and reusing thermal energy from wastewater, SHARC solutions enable decarbonized heating, cooling, and domestic hot water production and reduces freshwater consumption in the built environment. McCotter Energy systems is the local SHARC manufacturer’s representatives for Wisconsin, the UP of Michigan, and Northern Illinois.
Have a question about the Tech Forum?
Contact our Education & Engagement Manager, Miranda Wright, today!
