Published: Ongoing
Organizations: New York State Energy Research and Development Agency (NYSERDA), Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), Building Energy Exchange, and Urban Land Institute
Format: Website
Estimated Reading Time: Varies by need
Why We Recommend It?
This is one of the most comprehensive and practical decarbonization resources available for large buildings. Developed through the Empire Building Challenge and grounded in real projects across New York State, RetrofitPlaybook.org distills decades of expertise, strategic frameworks, and proven technical pathways for retrofitting cold-climate buildings. While its case studies are U.S.-based, the methodologies, planning principles, and system strategies are highly transferable—especially for Canadian regions like Southwestern Ontario Waterloo facing similar climate challenges.
Whether you’re a developer mapping out a long-term capital plan, a consultant designing a retrofit roadmap, a policymaker shaping decarbonization incentives, or a builder or contractor aligning with next-generation construction practices—this platform delivers the deep technical guidance, project insights, and replicable models you need to move from ambition to implementation.
aUDIENCE SPECIFIC
For Building Owners & Developers
Key Takeaways:
- Breaks the retrofit journey into manageable phases with clear actions and decision points.
- Aligns retrofit strategies with capital planning, tenant needs, and long-term asset value.
- Offers real-world case studies and ROI frameworks to support confident investment decisions.
Recommended In-site Resources:
For Designers & Consultants
Key Takeaways:
- Offers technical guidance and modeling support from early feasibility to performance verification.
- Includes case studies and playbooks to support integrated design and coordination.
- Helps consultants articulate value and system interactions to clients.
Recommended In-site Resources:
Client Communication Tools:
- 3-Step Strategic Planning Framework
- Economic & Financial Analysis Guide
- Seven Misconceptions About Decarbonization
Design & Technical Guides:
For Builders & Contractors
Key Takeaways:
- Offers insights on sequencing, material specs, and workforce planning for low-carbon retrofits.
- Supports adoption of best practices aligned with emerging codes and owner expectations.
- Helps builders integrate into early planning to minimize disruptions and optimize outcomes.
Recommended In-site Resources:
For Governments & Utilities
Key Takeaways:
- Informs policy, incentives, and pilot program design using field-tested insights.
- Highlights systemic barriers and opportunities to scale retrofit adoption.
- Offers tools to develop coordinated regional strategies for emissions reduction.
Recommended In-site Resources:
Next Steps & Related Reading...
- Looking for implementation examples? Explore New York case studies by building type and strategy on the Playbook, or check out our regional Case Studies section.
- Worried about high costs? Visit our Funding & Financing section to explore grants, rebates, and incentives.
- Have ideas or needs? Contact us to suggest resources or events—we’d love to hear from you.