USGBC California Launches Digital Hub to Help Accelerate Retrofits, Decarbonization

The U.S. Green Building Council California has launched the California Building Performance Hub, a comprehensive and centralized digital platform designed to directly support California’s urgent need for equitable decarbonization, energy efficiency and the implementation of building performance standards across the state.

This first-of-its-kind statewide initiative plans to support thousands of buildings in accelerating retrofits by providing sophisticated resources, tools and expert guidance for building owners and managers, local governments, contractors, tenants and community advocates as they navigate the growing momentum and complex landscape around BPS policies statewide.

Features of the comprehensive digital platform include:

• A California Benchmarking and BPS Policy tracker maintains up-to-date information on existing programs and policies under development statewide.
• Resource libraries are tailored to the specific implementation needs of building owners, local jurisdictions, contractors and service providers and tenants.
• The AI-powered Building Support Agent provides guidance on benchmarking, compliance, upgrades, rebates, financing and policy requirements adapted to specific roles, building types and locations to deliver tailored, actionable support.
• A building performance calculator developed in partnership with AMA Group helps building owners estimate energy use intensity and greenhouse gas emissions.

The Hub will continue to develop, responding to community input and marketplace needs, with a focus on bridging resource gaps:

• A suite of help desk services will include implementation support for benchmarking and retrofit planning, as well as coaching for local jurisdictions and other stakeholders.
• Model ordinances, implementation timelines and cross-jurisdictional templates will support municipalities in developing and implementing their own BPS ordinances.
• An enhanced Professionals Directory will provide direct support for building projects through technical assistance and case management.
• Guidance on stacking incentives and financing templates will help users pair incentives and financial tools, while additional resources will support CDFIs and lenders.

For more info and to access the Hub, please visit CABuildingHub.org.