Setting a net-zero target is the easy part. Building a credible, achievable roadmap is where the real work begins.
Context: The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Buildings Guidance requires a 42% absolute reduction in Scope 1+2 emissions by 2030 and a 90% reduction by 2050, relative to a 2020 base year. These are absolute targets — intensity improvements alone won't be enough.
Step 1: Baseline Your Portfolio
You can't set meaningful targets without understanding where you stand. For each building, establish: - Annual energy consumption by fuel type - Energy Use Intensity (EUI) in kWh/m² or kBtu/ft² - Scope 1 and 2 emissions (using regional grid factors) - Current ENERGY STAR score or equivalent benchmark
EdiMono automates baseline creation using weather-normalized regression models.
Step 2: Set Science-Based Targets
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) provides frameworks for buildings. A typical target: reduce Scope 1+2 emissions by 42% by 2030 and 90% by 2050, relative to a base year.
Target-setting tip: Lock in your base year as early as possible. The longer you wait, the fewer historical options you have — and regulators may mandate a specific base year that doesn't show you in the best light.
Step 3: Prioritize Retrofits
Not all buildings need the same interventions. Rank your portfolio by: 1. EUI vs. benchmark — buildings far above their peer group get priority 2. Emissions intensity — gas-heavy buildings in clean-grid provinces may not need electrification first 3. Retrofit cost-effectiveness — use simple payback and lifecycle cost analysis 4. Lease expiry — align major retrofits with tenant turnover
Step 4: Track Progress
Annual reporting against your baseline is essential. EdiMono's dashboard shows: - Portfolio-wide emissions trend vs. target trajectory - Building-level progress with red/amber/green status - Weather-normalized comparisons to avoid false signals
Step 5: Report and Communicate
Whether for investors, tenants, or regulators, credible reporting requires: - Transparent methodology (IPMVP, ASHRAE, GHG Protocol) - Third-party verifiable data - Clear distinction between absolute and intensity-based metrics
Key Takeaway
Distinguish between absolute and intensity-based targets in all communications. A building that doubles in size while holding constant EUI has not made progress on absolute emissions. Regulators and SBTi require absolute reductions.
Key Takeaway
Net-zero is a journey, not a destination. The roadmap keeps you honest, focused, and accountable.