Don’t Forget About the GHG Self-Certification Process

Since 2007, projects that are reviewed under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and which require an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) are subject to MEPA’s Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Policy and Protocol. The GHG Policy leads project proponents to incorporate measures to reduce energy use beyond a base building code case to lower GHG emissions. The Proponent then commits to achieving specific GHG reductions though the means identified in the EIR or by some alternative means developed later in design.

A key element of the GHG Policy is the requirement that upon completion of work, the Proponent is to self-certify to the MEPA Office that the project does indeed achieve the GHG reduction levels that were identified in the EIR. The self-certification process involves providing MEPA with documentation to show that what was built is the same or equivalent to what was specified. This, for example, can involve verifying levels of wall insulation, confirming the installation of high-efficiency equipment, or demonstrating that room occupancy sensors are installed.

Epsilon has assisted numerous clients to develop the documentation needed for successful self-certifications, including the MGM Casino in Springfield and New Balance’s Boston Landing development.

Contact us today for help with GHG analysis & self-certifications or if you have any questions about the MEPA process. Epsilon is here to help!