Committee leans toward pragmatic EUI interim targets, asks Slipstream for sensitivity analysis

The Healthy Buildings Technical Committee focused on how to convert raw benchmarking data into practical interim Energy Use Intensity (EUI) targets that building owners can meet.

Committee members agreed Slipstream, the consultant engaged by staff, will run sensitivity analyses showing how many buildings would meet candidate interim targets and will present suggested interim values by building type. The group repeatedly emphasized the need to bin properties (for example, multifamily versus office) and then draw target lines for milestone years (2030, 2035, 2040, 2045, 2050).

Several members cited lessons from other cities: Denver’s initial targets were described as too aggressive for early rounds, and Boston’s approach was characterized as overly complex. The group therefore asked Slipstream to produce a short table of building-type interim targets and a companion column showing the percent reduction required between milestone years so decision makers can compare approaches rather than adopt a single aggressive trajectory.

On verification, staff clarified that verification will be required for the baseline and at each performance year (every five years). Members raised procedural questions about appeals and who would hear contested classifications or reported data; those procedural issues were deferred until staff and Slipstream provide analysis of likely compliance rates and staff capacity.

Because the meeting was not a formal vote, the committee did not adopt targets but agreed to reconvene after Slipstream’s June deliverable to discuss specific interim standards and the draft form for alternative compliance petitions.