Net Zero Energy and Net Positive buildings are the exemplars that will significantly reduce carbon emissions in New York City: buildings that give more than they take. Achieving Net Zero, however, is a tremendous challenge in a urban environment where density, shadows, and restricted roof area often limit PV, where a focus on first cost and short payback horizons limit the appetite to invest in a Low Carbon future, and where an aversion to risk can cause building owners and developers to get gun-shy or cause a contractor to triple their bid.

So how do we rise to the challenge? Hear leading practitioners discuss their unique perspectives on the design, construction and financing of ultra high performance buildings. Team leads of highly touted projects such as Cornell Tech and PS 62 will discuss lessons learned, obstacles overcome, and their recommendations for how more architects, engineers, contractors, and developers will be able to make the impossible possible in the years to come.