Zero Net Energy Retrofits Development & Municipal Support

Weston & Sampson facilitated training programs for the cities of Salem and Beverly, Massachusetts, which both hold Green Communities Designations, to demonstrate the feasibility, performance, and cost of current and innovative technologies regarding zero net energy building retrofits and high-efficiency development.

These customized trainings supported development stakeholders and municipal staff in Salem and Beverly by addressing net zero technologies, implementation barriers, policy opportunities, and updates to the Massachusetts Stretch Energy Code and Municipal Opt-in Specialized Stretch Code. Public engagement materials ensured active participation throughout the process. Pre-training questionnaires and surveys helped tailor content to participants’ knowledge and interests. Interactive tools used during sessions captured real-time feedback on barriers and solutions to achieving net zero energy. The trainings facilitated dialogue between municipal staff, developers, architects, and the public, helping city officials better understand how to support sustainability and resilience efforts. This initiative advanced a key action from the cities’ Climate Action & Sustainability Plan.