Working Groups

The objectives of the Working Groups are to support the Consortium in its tasks to: (1) identify potential next-generation technologies; (2) prepare an analysis of cost and non-cost barriers; and (3) collaborate with industry stakeholders. The Zero Energy Commercial Buildings Consortium will develop two deliverables: (1) a next-generation technologies inventory, and (2) an analysis of cost and non-cost barriers and policy solutions. A final analysis will be compiled by the Steering Committee from these reports.

We are in the process of establishing a web-based file-sharing platform for the working groups that will allow for more seamless collaboration and member to member interaction.

• Draft Working Group Charter

In the meantime, please feel free to review the current membership and preliminary draft scopes for each of the groups. If you see any gaps on the membership lists, please help us spread the word. Please feel free to direct suggestions, comments and questions to zeroenergycbc@ase.org.

For the working groups overall, some initial thoughts and questions to consider include:

• This process is meant to be visionary, looking forward 30-40 years ahead of time. This can complement work by the CBEAs who are more focused on the near term
  • In addition to perspectives of big building owners and operators, what else is out there that we can add in the near term, but more importantly what’s even farther ahead.
  • What’s the end point look like, and some major milestones by category in between. Smallest emphasis on the next 5 years which may be well covered by the CBEAs.
  • What are the biggest chunks of energy savings in the next 5 years and next 10 years. And what comes farther down the road?
• Need to coordinate with DOE and PNNL’s activities (which covers what’s within 2 years of commercialization)
• Defining net-zero energy--Let’s establish one working definition across working groups for now and evaluate exceptions on a case-by-case basis

Working Groups shall coordinate efforts with other initiatives and committees which fall under DOE’s Commercial Buildings Initiative, such as the Commercial Buildings Energy Alliances (CBEAs).

Below are links to current membership lists and draft scopes of each of the working groups.

Technologies and Practices

1. Building Envelope
2. Mechanical Systems, Plumbing, and Controls
3. Lighting/Daylighting and Controls
4. Process, IT, and Miscellaneous Equipment
5. Combined Heat and Power (CHP), Multi-Building Systems, and Grid Integration

Market and Policy

6. Codes and Standards
7. Integrated Design and Building Delivery
8. Benchmarking and Performance Assurance
9. Financing and Appraisal
10. Voluntary Programs, Incentives and Green Buildings Initiatives
11. Owner/Tenant Issues
12. Workforce Development