As cities aim to transition their buildings to include more green and sustainable sources of electricity, retrofitting – or installing – fossil fuel-based buildings with high-efficiency and clean electricity is crucial. However, one size does not fit all. Including historically disadvantaged communities in the design of retrofit programs helps to identify and incorporate the individual needs and priorities of each community.
This can be achieved by co-creating programs that prioritize community benefits alongside energy and greenhouse gas reductions; engaging in culturally-appropriate outreach to deliver measures that address holistic building needs (i.e., health and safety); creating umbrella programs that coordinates across multiple programs and directs customers to the right offerings; and driving the creation or high-quality jobs for retro-fit workers.