Hub February 2026 Newsletter
Greetings -
The Building Energy Hub remains a steady resource for Illinois building professionals. Whether you're planning a major equipment upgrade, navigating evolving energy codes, or seeking guidance on incentives, we're here to help you make informed decisions that save energy and set your building up for long-term success.
From educational resources to policy updates and financing opportunities, the Hub supports you in reducing emissions, managing costs, and planning for future improvements.
Thanks,
Katie, Rimjhim & Matt
The Hub Team
Take Your Facility Management Skills to the Next Level!
Looking for ways to boost your facility’s efficiency? Take the next step by expanding your expertise with the nationally recognized
Building Operator Certification® (BOC).
BOC training helps you understand the latest operational strategies to analyze and manage building system energy use, with online and in-person courses offered year-round so you can learn in the way that will help you succeed.
Still not convinced? Check out
this real world success story to learn how BOC can make an impact, then explore upcoming courses at
boccentral.org/training. Questions? Contact
boc@mwalliance.org.
Illinois Stretch Code Grants
The Stretch Building Code Grant Program is designed to facilitate the adoption, implementation, and enforcement of the Illinois Stretch Energy Code by supporting municipalities with the necessary resources to navigate this process. The program will provide financial support for education, community engagement, and technical assistance to ensure that municipalities are well-equipped to integrate the stretch code into their regulatory frameworks. Program funds will be allocated over a five-year period, with the goal of supporting 90 municipalities in adopting the Illinois Stretch Code.
Round 3 of the Stretch Code Adoption Grant Program is now open! Applications are due by April 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM CT.
New on The Building Energy Pod
In the latest episode of the Building Energy Pod, Beth Holaday, Senior Sales Manager at Verde Energy Efficiency Experts, joined us to explore the intersection of sustainability and business. She shared the journey that she takes building owners and facility managers on when starting their energy efficiency journey, starting with the lowest-hanging fruit that often have the quickest payback period, before moving on to larger investments.
In this conversation, Wayne Beals, a seasoned realtor and sustainability advocate, shares his insights on the intersection of real estate and green building. He discusses his journey into the world of sustainable buildings, the critical role realtors play in educating clients about high-performance homes, and the importance of policy advocacy in advancing green building practices.
Building Performance Partnership Network
The Hub is a proud member of the Building Performance Partnership Network, which has just launched a new website. It explains how we are working together with the BPP Network to accelerate measurable, equitable, and sustainable action to improve the health, comfort, and performance of buildings. Please check it out and help us share the news!
Upcoming Hub Events
Contractor Connection: Chicagoland Clean Energy Incubator Program
February 27, 2026 @ 12:00 PM
Join the Building Energy Hub for a virtual education session to learn how Innovation DuPage supports clean energy entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Chicagoland area and beyond. Their Clean Energy Incubator (CEI) Program is a no-cost opportunity for entrepreneurs and small business owners to grow, connect, and lead in Illinois’ clean energy sector.
#ICYMI: Virtual Education Recordings
Episode 3: Making it Happen - Implementation Pathways
In this episode, we explore the most common building upgrades, from HVAC electrification and insulation to solar installations, and how to integrate these into capital planning cycles. Learn how to collaborate effectively with contractors, engineers, and financing partners to streamline projects, and hear practical insights on how to unlock incentives, grants, and loans for your next step.
Upcoming Partner Events
Power Up! How Organizations "Gamify" Energy Savings
Hosted by U.S. Department of Energy Better Buildings Better Plants
March 10 @ 10:00 AM
Organizations have found different incentives to optimize their building occupants' energy management. This webinar highlights the "games" and competitions that partners have developed to help occupants achieve cost savings across their portfolios.
