Net Zero New Buildings and Homes

Denver's goal is all new buildings and homes to achieve Net Zero Energy (NZE) by 2030. We consider a building to be Net Zero Energy when it is:  

  1. Highly energy efficient
  2. All-electric
  3. Powered by renewable energy
  4. A provider of demand flexibility for the grid. 

This resource hub pulls together information from Denver and pairs it with resources from across the country to help building owners, professionals, and residents.

2022 Building Code Updates

After over 18 months of working to develop a new building and fire code, the city has adopted the 2022 Denver Building and Fire Code and the 2022 Denver Green Code. These new codes will apply to all new construction, remodels, and building renovations citywide. They also provide pathways for development projects to achieve even greater energy performance and occupant comfort. The building code is based on the 2021 series of international codes and includes local amendments tailored to Denver’s unique climate, context, and citywide goals. The new code goes into effect on May 1, 2023.However, certain provisions related to the Energize Denver Electrification Program take effect on March 1, 2023. These code updates reflect years of work from Community Planning and Development’s citywide planning initiatives and the Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency’s climate action initiatives. 

See a more in-depth overview of the 2022 code updates