The City of Las Cruces is on the verge of implementing zero energy mandates in the construction of all new city government buildings.
The action comes after the city’s Sustainability Office recommended in a presentation to the Las Cruces City Council that such mandates could be achieved and would in the process greatly reduce overall energy costs.
According to the Department of Energy, zero energy buildings are designed to consume only as much energy as can be produced onsite through renewable resources.
Zero energy in new construction is also attained through the use of recycled and reused materials in the building process.
Advocates of the movement have additionally promoted the use of structural wood rather than steel and cement as a preferred material for construction.
Boston has just adopted a zero energy ordinance for all buildings larger than 20,000 square feet, joining the cities of New York, St. Louis, and Washington, D.C., who have all implemented similar measures.
Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima has additionally suggested introducing net zero alternatives even in private construction, noting that homes could see the installation of such features as charging stations for electric vehicles.
Las Cruces council members are expected to vote on the city building net zero resolution soon.
By Garry Boulard
