📋 Tender Overview
New code requirements to help Denver reach its climate action goals will go into effect for existing commercial and multifamily buildings this week. These requirements were outlined in the Energize Denver ordinance passed by City Council in 2021. Starting March 1 the new requirements will apply to gas-powered space and water heating and cooling equipment such as gas water heaters AC units and furnaces in commercial and multifamily buildings. Commercial buildings alone are responsible for 49 of Denvers greenhouse gas emissions and methane the primary component of natural gas has an 80 times greater impact on climate change than carbon dioxide emissions.These progressive new building codes were the result of a strong collaboration between the city and the community said Mayor Michael B. Hancock. Denver has spoken loud and clear that taking climate action is a top priority codes like these will help get us to zero emissions by 2040. Xcel Energy also has financial assistance available and the company is on track to reduce electricity emissions 80 by 2030 and 100 by 2050. The City and County of Denver is working aggressively to take advantage of renewable clean energy sources and a grid that is becoming more decarbonized each year. To do that starting March 1 commercial customers who apply for a permit for gas-powered water heaters furnaces and air conditioners condensers will need to demonstrate that they have evaluated the feasibility of using electric-powered equipment checked for gas line leaks andor ensured gas equipment if used is sized correctly and efficiently.The more Denver buildings can rely on electricity the more they will be able to be powered by renewable energy in the future.When an AC compressor furnace or water heater fails many buildings can replace it with an electric heat pump with a similar cost for installation and operation as they would pay with a traditional system said Grace Rink Denvers Chief Climate Officer.
