Seattle and Washington state are moving assertively towards zero carbon buildings over the next two decades, largely through codes and regulations, with some targeted incentives and subsidies.

In this session we will first summarize the state and city legislation setting these targets, the energy codes and building performance standards that are achieving them, and the support programs provided for stakeholders. Local design professionals will then describe how these regulations are playing out in real-world projects, what they actually cost, and what pitfalls to avoid. The session will include the special challenges of upgrading existing buildings, and of increasing electrical loads without exceeding the capacity of the electrical grid.