E – 3138 Decarbonization Strategies for Existing Buildings

The built environment accounts for approximately 40 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, with existing buildings representing the vast majority of this impact. While new construction increasingly incorporates sustainable design principles, the existing building stock—comprising over 5.9 million commercial buildings and 140 million residential structures in the United States alone—presents both the greatest challenge and the most significant opportunity for meaningful carbon reduction. This comprehensive course equips building professionals with the knowledge and strategies necessary to transform existing buildings from carbon liabilities into high-performance assets that support global decarbonization goals.

Building decarbonization encompasses far more than simple energy efficiency improvements. It requires a systematic approach that addresses building envelope performance, mechanical system electrification, renewable energy integration, and operational optimization. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, deep energy retrofits can reduce building energy consumption by 30 to 50 percent, while full electrification combined with renewable energy can achieve near-zero operational carbon emissions. The International Energy Agency estimates that to meet Paris Agreement targets, the global building sector must achieve an average emissions intensity reduction of 50 percent by 2030.

This course bridges technical knowledge with practical implementation strategies, examining proven decarbonization approaches applicable to commercial offices, multifamily residential buildings, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. Participants will learn how to conduct comprehensive building assessments, prioritize retrofit measures, navigate financial incentive programs, and develop phased implementation plans that minimize occupant disruption while maximizing environmental and economic returns.