Our Story
Leadership in Sustainability
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Healthy buildings, healthy people — healthy communities! ©Kimberly Davis
Since 1991, Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) has cultivated innovation in building the community's enrichment of environmental, economic, and human well-being. We accomplish this through green building ratings, consulting services, code advancement, education, and professional development.
As the city and the community grows, we continue to raise the standards for energy efficiency, water quality and conservation, indoor environmental quality, material resources, and site development. Together we address environmental, community, health, and economic issues specific to the Central Texas region. We know that we are part of a global ecosystem and choices we make close to home have impact across the entire planet.
Our Mission: To cultivate innovation in building and transportation for the enrichment of the community’s environmental, economic, and human well-being.
Renewable Resources Goals
In September 2021, City Council adopted the Austin Climate Equity Plan. The plan includes the bold and aggressive goal of equitably reaching net-zero community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 with a strong emphasis on cutting emissions by 2030. Getting to net-zero means the Austin community would reduce our use of fossil fuels to nearly zero. We set this goal because we believe it is possible and know it is needed to preserve a livable climate.
Visit the City of Austin Office of Sustainability website for more details.
Community Collaboration for Design and Building Standards
AEGB partners with other City departments, local organizations, and building professionals to develop standards that encourage higher performance levels in the design and development industry to help meet these goals.
- See how we drive innovations that address the most significant sustainability challenges of today
- Read up on City policies, building codes, and development agreements that include green building
- Dive into our data to learn about the impact of AEGB rated projects, view maps and see featured participants.
Our Rating System: A Checklist for Green Building
With the help of a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, Austin Energy Green Building developed the first residential rating in 1991. In 1995, a checklist for commercial buildings was developed and in 1998 the multifamily green building rating tool was added.
The rating systems reward sustainable building practices, lead to high-performing buildings and create market demand for green buildings. As the market recognizes sustainable building practices, these measures are incorporated into Austin’s codes and local building regulations.
Projects are rated on a scale of one to five stars based on a point system of required and voluntary sustainable measures.
- Looking for design inspiration? Browse our library of green building case studies
- Connect with local Green Building professionals. Browse our professionals directory
- Want to have your project rated? Register a project to get started
Stay Connected
- Follow us on Facebook
- Subscribe to our online newsletter to stay up to date with our upcoming events
- Telephone: 512-482-5300
- Email: Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB)
Date last reviewed or modified: 05/08/2024