GREEN
Vicinity Energy recently celebrated the launch of its carbon-free thermal energy solution, eSteam, at its Cambridge, Mass. facility.
BERDO: From Boston to your Backyard
By John D. Hyde
The movement to adopt Building Performance Standards statewide is picking up steam, marking a significant change for a set of regulations once seemingly limited to the Boston and Cambridge environs. Boston’s program, named BERDO, and Cambridge’s version, called BUEDO, have been implemented to help those municipalities achieve net zero emissions by 2050, with ongoing reporting to ensure that key benchmarks are being met. The ordinances aim to promote energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and improve air quality. This initiative will reduce the city’s carbon footprint and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Boston’s program, named BERDO, and Cambridge’s version, called BUEDO, have been implemented to help those municipalities achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
In August, the Commonwealth released a draft regulation, “Large Building Energy Reporting,” for public comment. The policy would require disclosure of energy information like electricity, gas, oil, steam, and propane usage. To ensure compliance with carbon emission reduction goals, buildings of a particular type and size are subject to strict limitations on their allowable CO2 emissions per square foot. These emission limits will decrease over time, aligning with Boston’s and Cambridge’s ambitious goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
While the goals are ambitious and important, there’s a level of uncertainty that goes along with any new requirements. As BERDO-like regulations begin rolling out to other communities, it’s important to understand the potential impact on buildings over a certain size. While it remains to be seen which elements of BERDO or BUEDO will come to smaller cities and towns, the basic elements of each program should be preserved.
How to Prepare for New Environmental Standards
While the end goal for BERDO and
BUEDO-affected buildings is the same – to achieve net zero emissions and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – the pathways to getting there are unique and often complicated. Preparing to conduct an energy audit is a smart way to begin planning for what’s likely coming.
Here’s an easy 5-step checklist that you can begin following now to prepare for future regulations:
• Conduct an energy audit.
• Develop a decarbonization priority list.
• Perform energy efficiency upgrades.
• Optimize the building envelope.
• Electrify your heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems.
• Install or source renewable energy.
Conducting an energy audit helps to establish a baseline and identify systems in a building that are consuming excessive energy. Next, a facilities team should develop a decarbonization priority list while considering the upfront capital
expense, disruption to occupants, return on investment, reduced energy costs, incentives, increased rents, and avoided penalties.
Energy efficiency upgrades can include retro-commissioning existing systems to ensure they are operating efficiently, replacing fossil fuel systems with electric, and upgrading to energyefficient lighting. Optimizing the building envelope is another area of “low-hanging fruit” when it comes to energy efficiency.
Replacing fossil fuel-powered HVAC systems with electric alternatives is a crucial step in reducing a building’s carbon footprint. Electric HVAC systems, such as heat pumps, utilize electricity to heat and cool spaces. Heat recovery systems reuse waste heat generated by other building processes. This integrated approach reduces emissions and leads to lower operating costs, and a sustainable building environment.
Keeping an Eye on the Bottom Line
By complying with BERDO-like standards, building owners can avoid being associated with non-compliance. Penalties are imposed for non-reporting, non-compliance, and for each metric ton of emissions exceeding the allowable limit. The revenue generated from these fines is directed towards the Equitable Emissions Investment Fund (EEIF) which will dispense collected fines to nonprofits for reducing building emissions.
Building owners can make their properties more attractive to investors and tenants by retrofitting their buildings to comply with these standards. This will lead to longer leases and increased asset liquidity, ultimately resulting in higher exit prices and improved returns, especially as the demand for low-carbon workspaces outpace supply.
By strategically leveraging incentives, collaborating with tenants, and recognizing the benefits of sustainability, building owners can effectively manage the burden of compliance while positioning properties as attractive investments and developing positive relationships with tenants.
The Future of Building Performance
While BERDO-like policies are still being implemented in more communities throughout Massachusetts, it’s essential to understand that preparing a building to meet these performance standards can be a significant undertaking. The process can take several years, especially for larger or more complex buildings.
John D. Hyde is senior sustainability manager at Chapman Construction/ Design.
BuildGreenCT Celebrates One Year Anniversary
New Haven, CT – BuildGreenCT – the joined forces of the Connecticut Green Building Council (CTGBC), Connecticut Passive House (CTPH), and Living Future Connecticut – is celebrating its one-year anniversary.
The organization is holding a Birthday Benefit on Dec. 5 to support its mission to accelerate the just and sustainable transformation of the built environment through its year-round advocacy work; educational programs for 2025, including the Green Building Awards; and strategic investments the organization is continuing to make to support its unified and expanded sustainability community, including a member directory.
Representatives say this unification signifies a pivotal moment in these organizations’ journey, building on their strong history of collaboration, the unique strengths of each organization, and the collective aspirations to meet
this all-hands-on-deck moment. The new brand name reflects the core identity of the organization and its aspirations for Connecticut: Educate – Advocate –Empower – Thrive.
BuildGreenCT offers multiple options for people to engage with the organization as a whole and/or through communities based on green building standards and different areas of emphasis related to its mission. Presently, there are six communities: CT Passive House, Connecticut LEED, Living Future CT, Green Homes, and Advocacy & Equity.
“This merger and new brand identity reflect our shared passion, commitment, and aspirations to promote sustainability and green building at this all-hands-ondeck moment. By coming together as a unified organization, we will amplify the impact of our programming and advocacy to our members, sponsors, partners, and the community at large,” said Alicia Dolce, executive director of BuildGreenCT (formerly CTGBC), co-founder of Connecticut Passive House (CTPH).
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Universal Supplies Energy-efficient Historic Windows for Stone Mill Lofts
Lawrence, MA – WinnCompanies recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of Stone Mill Lofts, one of the first all-electric mixed-income multifamily properties in Massachusetts, which completed the transformation of a 19th-century mill into 86 apartments. Universal Window and Door provided custom historic replica windows from its high-performance, triple-pane 1060 Series, satisfying the historic preservation requirements necessary to qualify for Federal and State Historic Tax Credits and fulfilling the project’s energy performance objectives.
Originally constructed between 1845 and 1848 as the Essex Company Machine Shop by the city’s namesake, Abbot Lawrence, Stone Mill Lofts building envelope incorporates substantial insulation, Universal’s high-performance historic replica windows, high-efficiency heat pumps, and energy recovery systems to maximize energy efficiency and air tightness while preserving the structure’s unique historic characteristics. The fossil-fuel-free design is expected to use 46% less energy and emit 33% fewer greenhouse gases than a typical gas-fired multifamily structure.
Designed by The Architectural Team (TAT) and constructed by Keith Construction, both of which have long
standing partnerships with Universal on historic renovation projects, Stone Mill Lofts comprises 50 one-bedroom apartments; 28 two-bedroom, two-bathroom units; and eight three-bedroom, two-bathroom units. Each unit features large window openings and existing historical elements such as exposed original wood beam ceilings. On-site amenities include an expansive resident lounge and kitchen, a fitness center, a children’s playroom, bicycle parking, work-fromhome pods, a historic mill exhibit room, and a patio. The complex is located within walking distance of a commuter rail line to Boston. Stone Mill Lofts has a significant affordable component, providing 58 apartments for households earning up to
60% of Area Median Income (AMI), 11 apartments for those earning up to 30% AMI, and 17 market-rate units.
“Once again, WinnCompanies is leading the way in developing innovative, energy-efficient, and affordable housing in New England,” said HUD Regional Administrator Juana Matias at the ribboncutting ceremony. “Their commitment to leveraging public-private partnerships and creatively utilizing federal and state financing resources is a testament to how
we can provide residents with affordable, service-rich housing that allows them to thrive.”
“With the increased focus on sustainability, our customers have been seeking a window solution that would deliver maximum energy efficiency while retaining our best-in-class historic replica window design,” said Jim Finn, president and CEO of Universal Window and Door. “And with the 1060 Series, we have answered the call.”
Clean Energy Firm Signs Lease
Woburn, MA – Nanoramic Laboratories has leased a 40,000sf headquarters in Cummings Properties’ Woburn technology cluster. The new facility, located at 10 Commerce Way, will house the growing cleantech company’s executive, administrative, and R&D functions.
Founded in 2009 out of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Nanoramic develops sustainable, high-performance lithium-ion batteries and capacitors for the automotive, aerospace, defense, and healthcare sectors. Its patented nanotechnology is designed to create a cleaner, more efficient manufacturing process and product than existing battery
“The existing infrastructure and amenity-rich location at 10 Commerce Way were key considerations in Nanoramic’s decision,” said Senior Leasing Director Rob Yacobian of Cummings Properties.
The facility, recently home to another cleantech firm, features newly constructed,
specialized lab and R&D space, including dry rooms, extensive power, and multiple loading docks. The Commerce Way site is located at the intersection of I-93 and I-95, within walking distance of many cafes and restaurants as well as the newly redeveloped Woburn Village shopping center.
Yacobian and VP of Leasing John Halsey worked with David Thomann, managing director at Cushman & Wakefield, on the lease. “We’re delighted to welcome another up-and-coming power player to Cummings’ Woburn climate tech cluster,” said Halsey. “Thanks to our strong relationships at Cushman & Wakefield, it was short work to execute the right deal for Nanoramic.”
Among Nanoramic’s new neighbors in Woburn are Active Surfaces, Agrivida, Alsym Energy, Emvolon, Phoenix Tailings, SES, Type One Energy Group, and numerous other cleantech and energy firms.
Stone Mill Lofts
10 Commerce Way, Woburn, Mass.
Faith Church Solar Hopkinton, MA
Manchester School District Celebrates Completion of 10-Year Renovation Plan with Opening of Net-zero Keeney Elementary School
By Michael C. Scott
The Manchester School District reached a significant milestone with the reopening of Keeney Elementary School in Manchester, Conn., the final phase in a decade-long renovation plan to transform all of Manchester’s elementary schools into state-of-the-art, sustainable learning environments. Keeney Elementary joins Buckley and Bowers Elementary Schools in achieving net-zero energy status, making Manchester again a leader among their peers for sustainable initiatives.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Keeney Elementary, held on Sept. 14, was attended by members of the Board of Education, the School Building Committee, and Manchester officials. Manchester Mayor Jay Moran emphasized the community’s commitment to sustainability and educational excellence.
“This project reflects our investment in our children’s future and our dedication to creating innovative, sustainable spaces for learning,” said Moran
A Decade of Transformation:
Manchester’s Comprehensive Renovation Plan
The completion of Keeney Elementary marks the successful conclusion of a twophase redevelopment project in which Manchester’s nine elementary schools were consolidated, reopening as six stateof-the-art, fully renovated buildings ready for the next generation of learners. The comprehensive plan was completed on schedule and under budget through two successful referendums:
Phase 1 (2014-2019) focused on
renovating Cheney-Bennet, Verplanck, and Waddell elementary schools, upgrading these aged facilities to contemporary pedagogies and program standards.
Phase 2 (2020-2024) included the transformation of Buckley, Bowers, and Keeney Elementary Schools into Net Zero Energy facilities.
Plan to Realization
TSKP STUDIO guided the town through a holistic assessment of their elementary school facilities’ condition and future needs, ultimately converging on the recommendation to use one of the nine schools as a swing space so that six schools could be fully renovated into
new facilities and the remaining three sunsetted from the town’s inventory.
After the success of the first three school renovations, built by Downes Construction, the Manchester community was eager to build on the momentum and advocated that the second phase strive for Net-Zero Energy certification – a distinction that, at the time, had yet to be achieved by any public school in New England, whether renovated or newly constructed.
Net Zero Success Stories: Buckley, Bowers, and Keeney Elementary Schools
TSKP STUDIO, in partnership with CMTA, led the design and engineering efforts to achieve net-zero energy goals. O&G Industries built the remaining three.
Buckley Elementary School, which reopened in 2022, became New England’s first verified Net Zero Energy public school. With a remarkably low Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 17.3, Buckley’s renovation involved gutting the existing 55,000sf structure and adding a 9,000sf expansion. Key features include a geothermal wellfield, rooftop photovoltaics, and a solar Smart Flower that tracks the sun to optimize energy production.
Bowers Elementary School, completed in 2023, is set to receive a $2.5 million tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act for its geothermal and photovoltaic systems. The project focused on maximizing energy efficiency, reducing
embodied carbon, and creating a healthy learning environment.
Keeney Elementary School, the latest to be renovated, now features a photovoltaic-topped entry canopy, a sundial in the courtyard, and a new STEAM suite designed to foster creativity and collaboration. The 56,400sf facility has been transformed into a modern learning environment with outdoor spaces that encourage exploration
A Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
In the brick and mortar of these schools, the town literally built the priorities and values that help distinguish the community in New England. Not only did they preserve these long-standing institutions, reinvigorating them with cutting-edge educational environments, Manchester’s focus on sustainability extends beyond energy-efficient buildings. These Net Zero schools are designed to serve as educational tools, with students monitoring energy consumption and learning about renewable energy systems through interactive dashboards and onsite technologies.
“By electing to renovate rather than build new, Manchester has significantly reduced its carbon footprint, saving up to 75% of the embodied carbon compared to new construction,” said Randall Luther, partner at TSKP STUDIO. “These schools are not just buildings but models for sustainable education that will benefit the community for generations to come.” Manchester’s efforts serve as a model for other communities seeking to invest in sustainable and healthy learning environments.
Michael C. Scott, AIA, MCPPO is senior associate at TSKP STUDIO.
Art room at Verplanck Elementary
Photo by Robert Benson Photography
Buckley Elementary School / Photo by Robert Benson Photography
Project room at Waddell Elementary School / Photo by Robert Benson Photography
Keeney Elementary ribbon cutting / Photo by Paul Ofria Photography
Decarbonizing Healthcare: Challenges and Solutions
by Phillip Barbe, Khaja Hussain Syed, and Duane Waite
Hospitals are inherently energyintensive due to their 24/7 operations, resource-heavy processes, and the need for uninterrupted power. This makes decarbonization a daunting challenge. However, the rewards include significant energy savings, enhanced operational efficiency, and progress toward sustainability goals.
Understanding the Scale of the Problem
North America leads global healthcare emissions, with the U.S. topping the list at 546 million metric tons of CO2e annually. Hospitals are a significant contributor due
to their extensive energy demands.
Key sources of carbon emissions include:
1. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
Hospitals require extensive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to maintain the controlled environments essential for patient safety and infection control. The constant need for climate control – especially in areas like operating rooms, intensive care units, and laboratories – leads to high levels of energy consumption, and much of that energy is still generated from fossil fuels. HVAC typically accounts for the largest share of energy use in a hospital.
2. Lighting and medical equipment
From hallways and patient rooms to operating theaters and diagnostic suites, lighting is essential in every part of a hospital. However, many older facilities still rely on inefficient lighting systems, which contribute to unnecessary energy use. Beyond lighting, medical equipment creates a substantial electrical load. Devices such as diagnostic imaging machines, life support systems, and sterilization equipment require large amounts of electricity and often run continuously. Even less frequently considered equipment, such as commercial kitchen appliances and laundry machines,
Source: Health Care Without Harm Climate-Smart Healthcare Series Green Paper Number One, September 2019
operate under the same 24/7 demand. The lifespan, efficiency, and energy sources powering this high-demand equipment play a significant role in shaping a hospital’s overall carbon footprint.
3. Medical gases
Medical gases such as nitrous oxide and desflurane that are commonly used in anesthesia contribute significantly to a hospital’s overall emissions. These gases, especially when released into the atmosphere, act as potent greenhouse gases, with global warming potentials (GWP) far higher than carbon dioxide. Nitrous oxide, for instance, has a GWP nearly 300 times that of CO2.
4. Energy used to heat water
Given the need for sterilization, sanitation, and general patient care, the water demand in hospitals is immense, and the energy required to pump, heat, and treat water is significant. Hospitals often rely on large-scale water heating systems, which consume substantial quantities of energy and contribute to their carbon footprint.
A Strategic Approach to Decarbonization
While wins can be achieved with newer, more efficient equipment to mitigate the key emissions sources, upgrading systems alone won’t suffice. Hospitals need a comprehensive decarbonization strategy that aligns with operational goals and capital budgets. This may include:
• Data-Driven Energy Management: Realtime monitoring systems can identify inefficiencies and optimize energy use,
guiding hospitals in transitioning to renewable energy in phases.
• Retro-Commissioning (RCx): Finetuning existing systems restores operational efficiency, correcting performance issues that arise over time.
• Purchasing Green Energy: Sourcing electricity from renewable providers is a scalable, cost-effective way to achieve immediate reductions in carbon emissions.
• Early Planning for New Construction: Integrating sustainability into the design of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems ensures new facilities meet decarbonization goals from inception.
• Staff Education and Engagement: An often-overlooked strategy is building a culture of sustainability, empowering staff to adopt and maintain green practices. Engaging all stakeholders –from leadership to on-the-ground staff – ensures that sustainability becomes a shared priority across the organization. Phillip Barbe, PE is a secondgeneration engineer and principal at Salas O’Brien. He can be reached at phillip.barbe@salasobrien.com. Khaja Hussain Syed, P.Eng, MSc is a vice president at Salas O’Brien. He can be reached at khaja.syed@salasobrien.com. Duane Waite is a principal and electrical department head at Salas O’Brien. He can be reached at duane.waite@ salasobrien.com.
The Eversource Business Energy Advantage Program Helps Businesses Achieve Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Goals
By Rebecca Mauser-Hoye
Eversource’s Business Energy Advantage (BEA) Program is designed to provide cost-effective, turnkey services for medium-sized business customers to help them achieve energy efficiency targets, lower their carbon footprint, and improve building operations. The goal of the program is to help them make small investments that together can generate large benefits for their bottom line and for the environment.
A customer is eligible to participate in the BEA Program if they are a current Eversource commercial customer in Massachusetts or New Hampshire and have an aggregated annual electric usage of 1.5 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) or higher, or an aggregated annual natural gas usage of 40,000 therms or higher. Other program offers are available for commercial Eversource customers in Connecticut as well.
The BEA program can help businesses in a number of sectors, including restaurants, offices, and manufacturers. The program offers a wide variety of rebates on products and technologies that help businesses save energy and lower the cost of installing energy efficiency or decarbonization solutions. Some of the qualifying technologies that can be incentivized and upgraded include, but are not limited to:
• LED lighting and/or controls (state dependent)
• HVAC upgrades and controls
• Weatherization (i.e., insulation, reducing air infiltration, duct sealing/repair, weatherstripping)
• Refrigeration controls upgrades
• Motors and pumps
• Variable frequency drives (VFD)
• Heat pumps (heat pump rebate program)
The following measures may be able to be installed at no cost to the business:
• Thermostats
• Pipe insulation
• Vending machine miser
• Energy efficient power strips
• Instant savings gas measures (i.e., kitchen spray valves, pipe insulation, faucet aerators)
The first step in taking advantage of
the BEA Program, its benefits, and rebates is to contact Eversource or an Eversource authorized BEA Contractor to identify qualifying projects, whether the business has project(s) in mind or are interested in an energy assessment to identify projects.
For more information on programs and support available for mediumsized businesses or Eversource’s role as a sponsor and utility partner of these statewide initiatives, visit MassSave.com or NHSaves.com.
Weston & Sampson is an Eversourceauthorized BEA Contractor and is available to help customers navigate through the program. This may include coordination with Eversource, preaudit and energy audit assessments, energy usage and savings calculations, completing and submitting incentive applications, project installation, and getting post-inspections scheduled.
Contact Rebecca Mauser-Hoye at mauserr@wseinc.com or (603) 263-9296, Sam Alpert at alpert.sam@wseinc.com or (781) 909-4032, or Patrick Owens at Eversource at patrick.owens@eversource.com or (781) 441-8010 for more information.
Rebecca Mauser-Hoye, PE, CEA is a project manager at Weston & Sampson in Manchester, N.H.
Some of the qualifying technologies that can be incentivized and upgraded include, but are not limited to:
• LED lighting and/or controls (state dependent)
• HVAC upgrades and controls
• Weatherization (i.e., insulation, reducing air infiltration, duct sealing/ repair, weatherstripping)
• Refrigeration controls upgrades
• Motors and pumps
• Variable frequency drives (VFD)
• Heat pumps (heat pump rebate program)
The following measures may be able to be installed at no cost to the business:
• Thermostats
• Pipe insulation
• Vending machine miser
• Energy efficient power strips
• Instant savings gas measures (i.e., kitchen spray valves, pipe insulation, faucet aerators)
A technician installs VFDs on well pumps at a water treatment plant.
Connecticut’s Small Business Energy Advantage Program Continues Growth
Hartford, CT – The Connecticut Green Bank and Amalgamated Bank recently celebrated the cumulative purchase of $100 million in loans through Eversource’s Small Business Energy Advantage (SBEA) program, which enables small businesses in Connecticut to reduce their energy costs through efficiency upgrades and zero-interest on bill financing.
“This is a great example of an innovative public-private partnership that creates significant benefits for our communities,” said Bryan Garcia, president and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “Through this program, small businesses are empowered to improve their operations, which helps strengthen our economy.”
Since December 2018, Amalgamated and the Green Bank have been in an agreement with Eversource to purchase tranches of SBEA loans. The loans are initially funded by Eversource, and Amalgamated Bank and the Green Bank purchase the loans to ensure the program has a continuous flow of affordable capital to support additional loans in the future. This allows all customers to benefit as program costs are lowered.
“Ensuring access to energy efficiency programs like SBEA helps small businesses overcome the financial hurdles that typically hinders their participation in energy saving initiatives which often
times saves them money in the long run,” said Edgar Romney, Amalgamated Bank’s chief strategy and administrative officer. “Our partnership with Connecticut Green Bank to fund energy efficiency improvements and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the SBEA is an excellent example of how financial institutions can support small businesses in addressing climate change and support sustainability efforts.”
To further support SBEA, the Green Bank created Green Liberty Notes, an investment opportunity that allows anyone to earn a return while directly supporting energy efficiency in Connecticut. Notes are offered quarterly through Raise
Green’s online investment platform with a minimum investment of $100 so everyone can support Connecticut’s small businesses’ efforts to become more energy efficient. The Green Liberty Notes program was recently honored as a 2024 State Leadership in Clean Energy Awards winner by the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA).
“The Small Business Energy Advantage program has helped small businesses across Connecticut gain access to the incentives and expertise necessary to improve their energy efficiency,” said Eversource vice president of energy efficiency and electric mobility, Tilak Subrahmanian. “We are pleased to see so
many business owners taking advantage of this program while lowering their energy bills and reducing their carbon footprint in the process. Through this partnership with Connecticut Green Bank and Amalgamated Bank, we are helping to provide the resources, information and funding that will allow Connecticut’s clean energy economy to continue to grow and flourish.”
SBEA offers a no-cost, no-obligation energy assessment to small businesses, providing a one-stop service that combines access to energy efficiency measures as well as incentives and payment plans.
“Through the Energize Connecticut Small Business Energy Advantage Program, we received customized recommendations from Eversource’s energy experts for improving efficiency at our center,” said Mary Etter, executive director, Bristol Adult Resource Center. “Eversource connected us with Energy Resources USA to replace old fluorescent lighting, which we had in every room, with LED bulbs. They also installed faucet aerators to improve our water flow, decreasing demand on our boiler system to heat the water. We have since seen electric and gas savings thanks to these upgrades, and Eversource and Energy Resources were great partners for us.”
BE+ Celebrates 2024 Green Building Showcase
Boston – Built Environment Plus (BE+) held its 2024 Green Building Showcase Awards Program and Celebration on Oct. 29. It was hosted for a second year by WS Development at One Boston Wharf Road in Boston’s Seaport District, with over 300 in attendance.
“The work we do is really hard, and the Massachusetts green building community sets such an important example for the nation to follow,” said Meredith Elbaum, executive director of BE+. “The thing that got me most excited about this year’s showcase was the way the roadmaps that have been laid out for building decarbonization are starting to take hold in such concrete ways. In addition to dozens of incredible projects that were part of the awards program, the event showcased the Massachusetts Embodied Carbon Challenge case studies; people literally stepped onto the first commercial pour of fossil-free Sublime Cement, and we announced that BE+ was awarded a major grant by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to help decarbonize our existing building stock.”
The Green Building of the Year Award went to Arrowstreet for its Boardwalk Campus project in Acton, Mass. Designed as the first Double Zero school (net zero energy and water) in Massachusetts, Boardwalk Campus is the first all-electric net-zero school, funded by the Massachusetts School Building Authority, at the cost of typical non-net zero schools. According to the judges, “Every community has a school. This demonstrates all that can be achieved within a typical public-school budget and how to fully leverage that investment to benefit the community and generations of learners. Biggest bang for the buck.”
Kate Crosby won the Change Agent of the Year Award
Kate Crosby, energy manager of the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District, won the Change Agent of the Year Award for her powerful contributions to the Boardwalk Campus and, by example and active knowledge-sharing, the entire Massachusetts school planning community. “Kate’s work is helping help other school districts feel confident they can succeed in pursuing zero carbon solutions, and in doing so will lead to more net zero buildings in operation and more thought leaders willing to advocate
Boardwalk Campus
and bring others along. We need leaders who are willing to stake a claim, act on it, lead their project to success, and then, very importantly, talk about it, leveraging experience to get others to act. Kate is doing all of this and more,” said Kimberly Cullinane of Eversource, who nominated her for the award.
With a focus on replicability and maximizing impact, the awards program highlighted projects across Massachusetts and beyond that incorporate best practices on sustainability, health, equity, and resilience. The most competitive award category was Carbon & Energy, which went to Vanderweil Engineers for Cape Cod Community College’s Wilkens Science & Engineering Center, designed by Payette. The judges were impressed with “the project’s integration of multiple solutions to achieve lowered embodied and operating emissions. In particular, the creative approach to integrated passive and active building solutions and the consideration of equipment selections that would align with local labor resources made this our top project.”
The second most competitive category was the Sustainable Building Renovation award. This award went to WinnCompanies, for their innovative transformation of Stone Mill Lofts in Lawrence, Mass. into all-electric affordable housing. According to the judges, “Through an equitable vision and holistic process, Stone Mill Lofts expertly addressed the need for sustainable, beautiful and affordable spaces for everyone.”
The event was capped off with the People’s Choice Award going to WS Development for One Boston Wharf Road, the city’s largest net-zero carbon office facility, the event venue itself, and future home of Amazon’s Boston Tech Hub. The 17-story, 707,000sf, mixed-use building designed by Henning Larsen architects of Copenhagen, Denmark and the Boston office of Gensler, is the latest addition to WS Development’s Seaport project, a 33-acre, 20-block, 7.6 million sq. ft. mixed-use development.
The winners:
Green Building of the Year
Boardwalk Campus, submitted by Arrowstreet
Carbon and Energy Award
Cape Cod Community College, Wilkens Science & Engineering Center, submitted by Vanderweil Engineers
Equity and Inclusion Award
Front Street Affordable Housing Phase 1, submitted by Utile
Health and Wellness Award
Tobin Montessori and Vassal
Lane Upper Schools, submitted by Perkins Eastman
Site and Landscape Award
Boston City Hall Plaza Renovation, submitted by Sasaki
Sustainable Building Operations Award
Orchard Gardens: Deep Energy Retrofit, submitted by West Work
Sustainable Building Renovation Award
Stone Mill Lofts, submitted by WinnCompanies
Sustainable Construction Innovation Award
49% Embodied Carbon Reduction in Concrete, submitted by Turner
Sustainable Interior Fit-out Award
CarGurus Boston HQ, submitted by Structure Tone
Student Project of the Year
The New Museum of Architecture and Design, submitted by Ella Schmid & Sofia Nolan (Wentworth Institute of Technology)
People’s Choice Award
One Boston Wharf Road, submitted by WS Development
Change Agent of the Year Award
Kate Crosby, energy manager of the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District
One Boston Wharf Road
Boston City Hall Plaza
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Veolia North America Releases 2nd Annual Triple Net Zero Industry Progress Report
Boston – Veolia North America (VNA) has released its second annual Triple Net Zero Industry Progress Report. The study is based on a comprehensive interview survey of 300 major corporations across 12 industries and 60 countries, assessing the progress made by companies in their journey toward achieving net-zero environmental goals in carbon, water and waste.
As global companies face mounting pressure from investors, regulators and the public, sustainability has become a critical aspect of business strategy. This latest report reveals the factors that help companies overcome challenges toward climate progress, and highlights gaps and barriers to meeting corporate climate targets.
Some of the key findings of the study include:
Companies are on the right track, but the public demands more action: A significant gap exists between corporate and public sentiment on climate change. While 98% of companies consider sustainability important, only 30% see climate change as a “high risk” to their operations. In contrast, 89% of the public believes climate disruption is happening, and two-thirds of the world’s inhabitants feel “exposed and vulnerable to a risk linked to climate change or pollution,”
according to Veolia’s Barometer of Ecological Transformation 2024 survey. This disparity underscores the need for businesses to align with public sentiment and take decisive action to reduce their environmental impact.
Beyond decarbonization – water, waste goals offer the greatest opportunity for immediate progress: The greatest opportunities to quickly and inexpensively address “low hanging fruit” exist in the water and waste sectors. Companies report having made more progress on decarbonization strategies than their waste and water management initiatives. The study found that fewer
than 20% of companies had an “excellent understanding” of the pathway to reach their water and waste reduction goals.
Education and partnership can accelerate corporate sustainability programs: Although 72% of companies claim to be “on track” with their sustainability plans, only 21% report having advanced sustainability programs in place. This finding suggests an important role for corporate education and industry partnerships to accelerate the adoption of advanced sustainability practices and technologies. Public sentiment supports this, and Veolia’s Barometer study found that 90% of citizens believe that ecological transformation requires the joint commitment of all stakeholders: local authorities, governments, international institutions, business, and individuals.
The study also provides regional and industry breakdowns of sustainability progress. For example, the study found that 25% of European companies surveyed reported “Advanced” sustainability programs, compared with 20% of companies in Asia Pacific and 10% of companies in North America. The study also reports that the top barriers to sustainability progress include cost, knowledge gaps, and reporting complexities, which companies in these regions must overcome to achieve success
in sustainability efforts.
Fred Van Heems, president and chief executive officer of Veolia North America, said, “Companies have the means, the will and the public support to bring about this ecological transformation. By continuing to invest in sustainable innovation and collaborating with all stakeholders, they can not only meet citizens’ expectations, but also create long-term value for society as a whole. This is what Veolia intends to do, in particular through GreenUp, a strategic plan designed to reconcile ecology and the economy.”
Dave Ross, executive vice president, government affairs and sustainability, and chief purpose officer of Veolia North America, said, “Today, companies are best placed to lead the ecological transformation, and our results show that they are taking this responsibility seriously. Their capacity for innovation and investment is a major asset in meeting environmental challenges. These figures show a tremendous opportunity for companies to align their sustainability strategies with public expectations. Consumers are ready to support green initiatives, paving the way for sustainable innovations and new business models.”
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Vicinity Energy Launches eSteam
Cambridge, MA – Vicinity Energy announced the launch of eSteam, the first carbon-free thermal energy solution in the U.S. This milestone follows a twoyear journey from concept to execution.
Vicinity’s inaugural 42MW industrialscale electric boiler is now operational at its Cambridge facility. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Nov. 19 to officially mark the occasion. The electric boiler will enable Vicinity to deliver its carbonfree thermal energy product, eSteam, to its customers starting this heating season. Boston and Cambridge-based customers have partnered with Vicinity to use eSteam in their buildings as an immediate solution for reducing carbon emissions. Vicinity will import renewable electricity through its co-located substations to power the electric boiler, generating carbon-free eSteam.
“The delivery of eSteam marks a pivotal moment in advancing urban decarbonization,” said Kevin Hagerty, president and CEO of Vicinity Energy. “The strong interest we’ve received from customers underscores the growing and urgent need for carbon-free thermal energy. As we approach capacity, the enthusiasm of early adopters reaffirms that district energy electrification is not only a viable solution but also the most efficient and cost-effective pathway to decarbonize a city quickly.”
“I grew up not too far from this location, and I have seen the transformation of this community from this site in particular, which is now going to reduce our neighborhood’s carbon footprint,” said Massachusetts State Senator Sal DiDomenico. “I want to thank Vicinity for choosing Cambridge, because we need to show the rest of the nation and the world that innovation is happening here in our great city. We are changing lives, and we’re doing work here that is not happening anywhere else in this country or the world.”
“The launch of eSteam marks a major step forward in our journey toward cleaner energy,” said Jennifer Lamy, associate director of sustainability at Emerson College. “Starting this semester, eSteam will begin heating campus buildings, and in the next several years, all of Emerson’s steam-heated buildings will
Our use of eSteam will contribute significantly towards our goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.”
“This project is a terrific example of the leadership and vision of businesses seizing the opportunities of the clean energy transition,” said Brad Campbell, president and CEO of the Conservation Law Foundation. “The commercial heating and power sector has long been considered ‘hard to decarbonize,’ but Vicinity is showing it can be done with existing technology in a competitive environment.”
“We at the Environmental League of Massachusetts know that technological innovation can both tackle climate change and create opportunities for our communities,” said Elizabeth Turnbull Henry, president of the Environmental League of Massachusetts. “Vicinity’s commitment to decarbonization with the launch of eSteam is exactly the kind of leadership we need to build a resilient, sustainable future for generations to come.”
Vicinity Energy’s new electric boiler be heated with carbon-free eSteam.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY BUILD.
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We take pride in being one of the state’s original ‘green’ builders, dedicated to constructing public, private, and independent schools, colleges, healthcare facilities, municipal buildings, and commercial spaces with a focus on quality, safety, and sustainability. At Fontaine, our commitment to excellence is evident in every facility we build, reflecting our deep dedication to creating environments that serve communities and support future generations.
