Skip to Content

Programs to Promote Zero-Energy New Homes and Buildings

As baseline building energy codes become more stringent, and as interest in decarbonizing buildings increases, a growing number of efficiency program administrators are focusing all or a portion of…

As baseline building energy codes become more stringent, and as interest in decarbonizing buildings increases, a growing number of efficiency program administrators are focusing all or a portion of their new-construction programs on zero-energy buildings and zero-energy-ready buildings. This paper discusses 20 such programs that together have an annual budget of about $65 million. These programs have collectively completed nearly 200 single-family homes, about 900 multifamily apartments, and 74 commercial buildings (with the commercial space totaling more than two million square feet of floor area). The brief provides information on the structure of these programs and lessons learned to date.

Related Resources

Bridging the Equity Gap for Utility Energy Efficiency Programs
equity
  • Research Report
  • Affordability and Energy Equity
  • Energy Efficiency Policy
  • Homes and Buildings
  • Utilities and the Power Sector
  • Bridging the Equity Gap for Utility Energy Efficiency Programs

    Utility energy efficiency programs have increased investment in low-income households, but significant gaps remain. This report examines spending and savings trends across 48 major U.S. utilities, identifies barriers to expanding low-income programs and highlights policies and program strategies that can improve energy affordability and equitable access to efficiency upgrades.

    Jul 31, 2026

    Efficiency Saves: Cutting Energy Waste Can Save $31,000 per Household
    An Indian couple sitting on a couch looking at energy bills.
  • Research Report
  • Energy Efficiency Policy
  • Homes and Buildings
  • Efficiency Saves: Cutting Energy Waste Can Save $31,000 per Household

    The United States faces interlocking energy challenges: rising home energy bills and gasoline prices; new demand for electricity from data centers and other loads; high greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels. 

    Now, a new era of energy efficiency progress in our buildings, transportation, and industry is needed to meet this moment. This wide-ranging study finds a massive opportunity.

    Jul 27, 2026

    Support the Work That Makes Energy Go Further

    ACEEE’s independent research and advocacy depend on the support of foundations, businesses, and individuals committed to cutting energy bills, waste, and climate pollution.