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Sustainable Westborough urges town to adopt state specialized energy code to speed electrification
Summary
Sustainable Westborough proposed adopting the state's Specialized Energy Code to promote electrification and Passive House efficiency for new multifamily and some commercial buildings; presenters said adoption unlocks grant funding (climate leader grants) and that most new multifamily projects are already meeting Passive House standards.
Representatives of Sustainable Westborough asked the Select Board to support Article 28, which would amend the town bylaw to adopt the state's Specialized Energy Code effective Jan. 1, 2027. Peter Flynn, committee chair, and colleagues said the code encourages electrification and higher efficiency for new buildings and that adopting it moves the town toward Climate Leader status (unlocking additional state grant funding).
"The purpose of the specialized energy code is to promote cost effective measures that reduce greenhouse gas emissions," Flynn said, explaining that the code applies to new buildings (not alterations) and that multifamily structures above three stories or 12,000 square feet would need to meet Passive House performance standards. He cited DOER figures saying less than 10% of recent new commercial builds rely on fossil fuel and that over 90% of recent multifamily projects are already meeting Passive House standards.
Board members generally expressed support and asked for clarification on which buildings would be affected; presenters noted an information session on Feb. 19 and additional regional briefings featuring towns that have adopted the code. The Select Board did not take a formal vote; members encouraged public engagement and attendance at the info sessions ahead of town meeting.
