Non-Profit Introduces New LEED Streamlining Tool

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The New Buildings Institute recently announced the official release of its new LEED automation tool, called the COMNET Energy Modeling Portal.

The institute is a non-profit organization with the stated goal of making it easier for builders to create green structures, with the hope of eventually building net-zero energy structures — which would consist of a building receiving all of its energy needs from renewable sources.

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CalGreen Codes Get An Upgrade

SACRAMENTO, Calif.— California has made headlines again in terms of environmental building practices. In January 2011, the state became the first in the country to create statewide green building codes with the CalGreen Building Code.

As of July 1, a set of improvements and enhancements to the code took effect that set higher standards for saving energy, conserving water and improving indoor air quality.

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