Bridging the Gap: The Future of Building Energy Codes and Decarbonization

special event, april 2026

Building energy codes are at a turning point.

Across the U.S., a growing disconnect is emerging between national model codes like IECC and ASHRAE and the climate goals cities and states are working to achieve. As code adoption becomes more fragmented, the question is no longer whether change is needed, but where it will come from and how fast it can happen.

Join us for a solutions-focused conversation on the future of building energy codes and their role in driving decarbonization. This event will unpack where current codes fall short, explore the forces shaping their evolution, and highlight real-world examples of what’s working today.

We’ll take a closer look at Massachusetts’ Stretch and Specialized energy codes as a leading model for state-level action, and examine how alternate compliance pathways, including Passive House, are helping project teams go further, faster. Together, we’ll explore how high-performance frameworks can help close the gap between policy ambition and building performance.

We’ll also take a hard look at what’s not working in the code development process today and what can be done about it. From connecting with local communities to mobilizing the design and building industry, we’ll explore how practitioners can play a more active role in shaping the policies that define our built environment. This is a must-attend session for anyone navigating the rapidly shifting code landscape and looking to understand what comes next.

This free presentation will take place on Wednesday, April 29th at 9am PT / 12pm ET and will be followed by a lively Q+A session. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an industry leader and engage with the PHA community. More details to come!

Categories: PHA Events, PHA Live