Boston University showcases net-zero building as governors gather; Healey, Wu and private sector highlight local climate steps

Boston University opened its Center for Computing and Data Sciences to regional leaders at the 45th New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers Conference, using the facility as an example of institutional climate action while state and local officials outlined complementary policy and procurement steps.

“It's the largest fossil fuel free, carbon neutral building in Boston and one of the largest carbon free buildings in New England,” President Gilliam said of the new Center. He described building features including 31 geothermal boreholes drilled to about 1,500 feet, extensive exterior shading, triple-glazed windows, and on-campus solar that matches roughly 23% of the building’s electricity needs.

Governor Maura Healey used the welcome to list early administration climate actions: appointing Melissa Hoffer as a cabinet-level climate chief and proposing that 1% of the state budget be directed to environmental purposes. Healey also referenced a recently signed housing measure she described as a $5,100,000,000 law intended to support decarbonization and affordable housing strategies.

Private-sector participation was highlighted by Jim Gallagher of Manulife/John Hancock, who said the firm manages roughly $70,000,000,000 in green investments and noted corporate efforts to reduce operational emissions. Gallagher tied those investments to local workforce and community programs and framed private capital as a partner for public policy.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu outlined municipal actions that align with state aims: the city has opted into the state's specialized energy stretch code, issued an executive order requiring fossil-fuel-free construction for new municipal projects and major renovations, and is piloting green retrofit programs for older and affordable housing stock. Wu said Boston participated in the recent offshore wind procurement and secured roughly 15 megawatts for the city—“the equivalent of one wind turbine, which will go to serve 5,000 residents in the city of Boston and about a third of the energy for the Boston Public School system,” she said.

Speakers framed the campus showcase, state policy moves and private investments as complementary pieces of a broader regional push to scale clean energy and retrofit existing buildings. After opening remarks the conference proceeded to closed roundtables focused on implementation details and coordination across jurisdictions.