New coalition aims to advance accessible, climate-forward buildings in Minnesota

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Minnesota Efficient Builders Coalition launches with the goal of building a better Minnesota.

A new statewide alliance of builders, designers, and industry professionals today announced the launch of the Minnesota Efficient Builders Coalition, a coalition dedicated to advancing accessible, sustainable, and climate-forward buildings policy across Minnesota.

The coalition will focus on improving building efficiency and performance, engaging on building codes, advancing building decarbonization and electrification, and promoting education and training for the building workforce. The group is co-chaired by practitioners and leaders from across the state, including Michael Carlin of Fern Custom Carpentry, Danny Desjarlais of the Lower Sioux Indian Community, Jim Kumon of Heirloom Properties, Elizabeth Turner of Precipitate, and Brian Wessels, of Intent Built Inc., with support from Fresh Energy.

The group brings together practitioners and leaders from across the state to develop policies and standards that tackle efficiency and affordability measures for the buildings sector and increase accessibility of high‑performance, low‑emissions building solutions.

“As we design and construct the energy efficient buildings of the future, we must prioritize attainability for all,” said Elizabeth Turner, Founder of Precipitate and coalition co-chair. “This coalition will be a space where like-minded building professionals can collaborate to advance the best building science practices that support efficiency for initial and operating costs in our buildings statewide.”

“Builders know that when it comes to construction, intentionality is key,” said Brian Wessels, Founder of Intent Built Inc. and coalition co-chair. “I’m excited to be a co-founder of this important coalition that will push the boundaries of what buildings can be in pursuit of affordability and energy-efficiency.”

“Over the years, my goal has been to improve the industry standard for building homes that emphasize durability, occupant health, energy efficiency, and resiliency,” said Michael Carlin, Founder of Fern Custom Carpentry and coalition co-chair. “I’m looking forward to being part of this coalition as we add a new voice focused on improving the status quo for construction practices in Minnesota.” 

The Minnesota Efficient Builders Coalition invites professionals and organizations across the state to join its efforts in shaping a resilient, equitable, and low-carbon built environment. More information is available on the Minnesota Efficient Builders Coalition website.

We are in unprecedented times for climate progress. 

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