An Overview of the U.S. Better Buildings Initiative as a Model for Other Countries

In the United States, residential and commercial buildings consumed about 27% and 19% of total primary energy in 2016, respectively. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is of great importance in creating jobs, saving money, reducing dependence on foreign oil and improving air quality. The Better Buildings (BB) Initiative, aimed at reducing energy intensity in the commercial, residential and industrial sectors by 20% by 2020, is one of the national leadership initiatives that help achieve this goal.

This report offers a comprehensive overview of the U.S. BB Initiative, including the program structure, management and implementation. The report also summarizes lessons learned for a U.S. audience and offers approaches that might be replicated in China and elsewhere.