Most of us take the electrical grid for granted. But it is perhaps the most complex technological achievement in human history. After more than a century of relative stability, the grid is changing fast. Our conference plenary will explore the technology and policy solutions evolving to enable a more reliable, resilient, environmentally responsible and affordable electricity grid.

Instructor Craig Foley will present three topics focused on the emerging high-performance housing market in Massachusetts. The first is an overview of the real estate value chain– green builders and contractors, listing agents, the green MLS, appraisers, lenders, and homeowners – and how it relates to the proper valuation of more efficient homes.

Learn about the new residential energy code as it applies to the enclosure and best practices for better buildings.  This training will review strategies that do and do not work as they apply to foundations through roofs.  Using real-world examples we will explore how to comply with the new residnetial energy code and build cost-effective high performance homes. 

It is said that homebuilding can look back at 300 years of history unimpeded by progress. It’s a bit of an exaggeration, but the energy-sucking, defect prone truth is unacceptable. Homeowners, society, and even the health of our planet have been underserved by the quality standard of our homes. As the vicious cycle of climate change accelerates, we must achieve a home quality paradigm shift now. That will mean thinking differently, acting differently, and doing differently.

The closing forum will feature 6 Pecha Kucha 20x20 presentations (20 slides, each for 20 seconds) followed by a discussion moderated by Matt Root. Participants will include three sages—John Abrams, Chuck Silver and Terry Brennan and three rising stars - Declan Keefe, Ace McArleton and Stephanie Horowitz. In 90 minutes, this session will teach you more about building, design, business, and life than you could learn in 10 years on your own.