Aaron Henry updates Danvers board on resilient Casper building plan implementation

Danvers is taking significant steps towards enhancing its climate resilience with an update on the Resilient Danvers Casper Plan, focusing on building improvements. During the Select Board meeting on April 15, 2025, Town Manager Aaron Henry presented key implementation strategies aimed at increasing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from buildings.

The Casper Plan, which was approved nearly a year ago, outlines six critical focus areas essential for the community's climate preparedness. Among these, buildings were highlighted as a major contributor to local greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for over 40% of the total. Currently, about 93% of homes and 75% of commercial structures in Danvers rely on fossil fuels for heating, presenting a clear opportunity for energy retrofits and electrification.

Henry emphasized the importance of adopting high-performance building practices, which include deep energy retrofits and infrastructure resilience measures, such as upgrading culverts to better handle future climate challenges. The board's discussions underscored the need for immediate action to transition towards more sustainable energy sources and improve the overall energy efficiency of the town's buildings.

As Danvers moves forward with these initiatives, the community can expect a more resilient infrastructure that not only addresses current environmental challenges but also prepares for future climate impacts. The board's commitment to these goals signals a proactive approach to sustainability and energy conservation in the town.