With increasing numbers of countries, states, cities and organizations committing to carbon neutrality by mid-century, zero carbon buildings are finally getting the attention they deserve as a critical climate solution. Buildings are responsible for nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The good news is that both interest and investment in zero carbon buildings are growing along with the launch of public commitments and global initiatives.

In the 2018 Johnson Controls Energy Efficiency Indicator Study, 50% of 1,900 global organizations in 20 countries plan to have at least one zero carbon (or net zero energy) building over the next 10 years. Additionally, 59% of organizations plan to increase investment in energy efficiency, renewable energy and smart building technology next year. These investments are key to decarbonizing both new and existing buildings.

The design of zero carbon buildings and communities is being driven by four major trends: decarbonization of the electric power grid; electrification of building space and water heating; efficiency improvements to reduce energy demand; and digitalization to provide needed flexibility in meeting the needs of building occupants and the energy grid. Efficiency, particularly when enabled by digitalization at a systems-level (i.e. active efficiency), is critical for dynamic peak demand reduction and affordability. Every dollar spent on energy efficiency returns $3 over time and saves $2 in energy supply investment. Combined, these four good “DEEDs”, decarbonization, electrification, efficiency and digitalization, provide a comprehensive pathway for buildings and communities to contribute to a low carbon future.

While zero carbon buildings and communities may seem complex and rare, they are quickly becoming mainstream with the support of global organizations such as Architecture 2030, Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction and the World Green Building Council. While less than 1% of new buildings are constructed to be zero carbon or zero carbon ready today, a number of cities, companies and real estate organizations have already committed to be 100% zero carbon across their portfolio by 2030. Furthermore, zero carbon buildings can be found in every climate zone of the world, as shown in the following examples.

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