#United States #decarbonization #Los Angeles #USGBC California #Building Performance

U.S. Department of Energy's $3.8 Million Award to USGBC California

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recently announced a significant investment of $3.8 million directed towards USGBC California (USGBC-CA) and its collaborative partners. This funding is aimed at advancing building decarbonization initiatives across California, particularly in urban areas like Los Angeles. This initiative is part of the DOE's Resilient and Efficient Codes Implementation grant program, which was established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

This support will be instrumental for the initiative known as CalBPS Peer Learning Collaborative and Resource Hub, focusing on training existing professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sectors. It aims to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and implement updated building codes and compliance standards, especially those that facilitate lower carbon emissions.

The USGBC California has ambitious plans for the funds, including establishing a comprehensive Building Performance Resource Hub. This hub will not only support the implementation of building performance standards and decarbonization policies statewide but will also provide workforce training, finance assistance, and technical advisory services. Ultimately, this initiative aims to create a more robust infrastructure for building performance in both the private and public sectors, enhancing the capacity of organizations to improve their building practices efficiently.

Ben Stapleton, the Executive Director of USGBC California, expressed optimism regarding the funding, stating, “We are at an incredible moment where we need to deliver successful models for effectively and efficiently decarbonizing our buildings.” He emphasized the importance of education and continued support for new and existing workers within the community, forming a critical resource for those participating in building performance enhancement initiatives.

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has also commended this funding decision, emphasizing that effective workforce development is essential for contractors striving to adopt higher-performing technologies. The initiative is designed to facilitate market readiness for innovative building upgrade solutions, benefiting both customers and the environment.

Project Benefits and Community Engagement

As part of the awarded funding, several key benefits for the community have been outlined. These include:

• - 650 existing AEC professionals will receive education and training during the grant period.
• - 150 new trainees will be offered project experience through the Green Building Corps, which serves as an internship platform for emerging professionals.
• - A target of 40% job placement for participants in the Green Building Corps, connecting them with real-world employment opportunities.
• - 12 community outreach events will be conducted in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, in partnership with local colleges, trade organizations, and environmental justice advocates.
• - Development and certification of Building Performance Training programs to formalize the training provided.
• - A fully functional Building Performance Resource Hub, which will make various resources and tools accessible to professionals across California.
• - Ongoing support for 400 Building Performance Professionals, who will be listed in a searchable database for easier accessibility.
• - Direct assistance for 65 building projects, with at least half of these initiatives located in disadvantaged communities, to ensure equitable benefits from the resources.
• - Approximately 2,000 residents expected to benefit directly from these comprehensive building project supports.

USGBC California aims to engage a wide array of partners, including local municipalities, educational institutions, technology companies, and nonprofit organizations. Strategic partners involved in this initiative include the California Energy Commission, National Electric Contractors Association’s Los Angeles chapter, and multiple community colleges across the state.

The rollout of the CalBPS Peer Learning Collaborative commenced in early 2024, with plans to expand the training and resources available to communities throughout 2025. For further information or to get involved with CalBPS, interested parties can reach out to Julie Du Brow.