This guide provides best practices for establishing and operating local governance boards (LGBs) for building energy upgrade programs. LGBs are community-driven boards that collaborate with program administrators to shape decisions around energy efficiency, electrification, and related upgrades, particularly in frontline and low-income communities. Drawing on technical assistance Residential Retrofits for Energy Equity (R2E2) has provided to local governments and community-based organizations in recent years, the resource outlines how LGBs can move beyond an advisory role to true co-governance, enabling deeper community participation and equitable decision making.
The publication defines key stages in developing and operating an effective LGB and offers guidance on roles, decision-making power, recruitment, facilitation, compensation, and evaluation metrics. By embedding community expertise and fostering shared decision making, LGBs can strengthen program outcomes, build local trust, and advance equity in building decarbonization efforts.
Residential Retrofits for Energy Equity (R2E2) provides deep technical assistance to state, local, and tribal governments as well as community-based organizations to jumpstart energy upgrades for single-family and multifamily affordable housing, especially in frontline communities. R2E2 is a partnership of the American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), Elevate, Emerald Cities Collaborative, and HR&A Advisors. Learn more about the R2E2 initiative and discover more R2E2 resources.
