The ASHRAE Decarbonisation Conference highlighted the dilemma of decarbonisation focusing on existing buildings or new constructions. Approximately 70% of current buildings are expected to endure for the next 30 years, prompting discussions on building performance standards (BPS). These standards, viewed as an evolution of existing decarbonisation measures, offer opportunities for large-scale carbon emission reductions.

Despite being expensive and challenging to implement, BPS are gaining traction, covering 22% of the U.S. population and over 25% of commercial and multifamily buildings. Challenges include the disconnect between predicted and actual energy performance, and the need for operational efficiency considerations from the inception of projects.

Read more here.