May 7, 2019

John Couture, Chair
Kerry Dietz, Vice-Chair
Massachusetts Board of Building Regulation and Standards (BBRS)

Dear Chair Couture, Vice-Chair Dietz, and members of the BBRS,

We, the undersigned organizations, are writing to urge the BBRS to update the current Massachusetts stretch energy code to a Net Zero stretch code. We believe that this reform will help achieve the energy efficiency goals we have as a Commonwealth, and encourage Massachusetts communities to develop better, safer, and more climate-friendly buildings.

As the Board is likely aware, many communities in Massachusetts are interested in Net Zero community planning and Net Zero buildings. A Net Zero stretch code will give those communities the opportunity to improve how buildings are built now, getting us closer to meeting our climate goals as outlined by Governor Baker and his administration.

The adoption of a Net Zero stretch energy code is necessary in order for the Commonwealth to reach Governor Baker's climate goals. Furthermore, an improved stretch code will help our buildings be more comfortable, help our communities be better places to live and work, and promote energy efficiency and public safety for all Massachusetts residents.

cc.
Governor Baker
House Speaker Robert DeLeo
Senate President Karen Spilka

Sincerely,