Updates To Chicago Energy Transformation Code Address Climate Change

In an effort to remain one of the leading major U.S. cities in environmental conservation, the City of Chicago passed the 2022 Chicago Energy Transformation Code, which amends the previous 2019 code. The amended code expands upon Chicago's commitment to addressing climate change, building energy efficiency and reducing its carbon footprint. Statistics show that buildings in Chicago produce 69% of the city's emissions. These amendments aim to reduce carbon emissions by 62% from 2017 levels by 2040. This article focuses primarily on the commercial provisions of the code, the scope of which apply to "commercial buildings (all buildings not included in the definition of 'residential building'), the building site and associated systems and equipment." Importantly, the amended code only applies to permit applications that require architectural plans that began on or after November 1, 2022 with certain additional requirements being phased in for projects commencing after