Denver is recognized for its collaborative and pioneering effort, Energize Denver will reduce carbon emissions from large buildings by 80% by 2040. Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency (CASR) received a Metro Vision Award from the Denver Regional Council of Governments for its work on Energize Denver. The policy was passed unanimously by Denver City Council in November 2021 to accelerate bold action on climate change.
Katrina Managan Denver Metro Vision Award
“We must urgently address the city’s role in the global climate crisis,” said Grace Rink, Denver’s chief climate officer. “This award recognizes a landmark policy that could serve as a model for other cities on building decarbonization.” Task force member Katrina Managan explained “Energize Denver” is a city council initiative to reduce carbon greenhouse gases by 80% by 2040 which led to the award!
The Metro Vision Award recognizes excellence, innovation, collaboration, and leadership in problem-solving among communities and partners. Energize Denver is the result of collaborative effort between government, non-profits, education, community, and businesses. The Energize Denver Task Force convened for eight months in 2021 to develop policy recommendations for City Council’s consideration. Such stakeholder engagement was essential to establishing the program’s goals and resources for building owners and managers.
Denver is committed to reducing emissions and achieving net zero energy by 2040. Commercial and multifamily buildings account for 49% of Denver’s greenhouse gas emissions. The Energize Denver ordinance requires buildings 25,000 square feet and larger to report their energy performance annually and buildings to drastically reduce their energy use Energize Denver will provide over $1 billion in benefits to the city and its residents through avoided social costs of carbon. The program will also improve local and indoor air quality, develop a green workforce, and lower building costs.