Promoting Green Architecture

The built environment has a profound impact on our natural environment, economy, health and productivity. Breakthroughs in building science, technology and operations are available to designers, builders and owners who want to build green and maximize both economic and environmental performance.

Doing energy efficiency “right” at the new construction and major rehab stage is by far the most cost-effective time to make these pro-environmental and energy cost reduction investments. This is the single most important policy step that a state can take to increase energy efficiency in buildings and reduce pollution through avoided electric power and natural gas use.

ELPC waged a successful public advocacy campaign for energy efficiency building codes in Illinois. In 2004, The Illinois General Assembly passed the Illinois Energy Efficient Commercial Building Act, HB 4099 requires all new construction or substantial rehab of existing buildings to meet energy efficiency standards established by the International Energy Conservation Code. It covers all commercial, industrial and multi-unit residential properties.

In 2009, the General Assembly passed HB 3987 that amends the energy efficient building code to include all residential and commercial buildings.

ELPC’s own eco-office is a case study of how environmental protection and economic development go hand-in-hand.

Learn more about the benefits of building green.