4th DISTRICT

​

​Derrick Holder

Democratic

U.S. House, Indiana 4

 

1.         WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS THAT CONGRESS CAN HELP TO REDUCE THE ENERGY AND WATER CONSUMPTION OF BUILDINGS TO HELP MAKE THEM MORE SUSTAINABLE?

​

Congress can take several key actions to reduce energy and water consumption in buildings, making them more sustainable such as incentivizing energy efficiency retrofits, promoting renewable energy, strengthening building codes, investing in research and development, supporting smart building technologies, water conservation programs, and public-private partnerships.

 

2. WHICH SUSTAINABLE BUILDING POLICIES DO YOU SUPPORT AND WOULD WORK TO ENACT IF ELECTED?

​

a. Set benchmarking requirements for commercial buildings and encourage cities and states to adopt performance-based standards for buildings

b. Provide rebates to homeowners who invest in energy efficiency improvements

c. Provide incentives to states and localities to adopt the most up-to-date energy building codes

d. Renew and expand tax incentives for energy efficient buildings

e. Require federal buildings to meet aggressive energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets

f. Provide support to states and localities to make buildings more resilient from natural hazards and disasters

h. Conduct research into the most promising technologies, products and materials that improve occupant health and reduce transmission of contagious disease while saving energy

i. Support programs or incentives to accelerate the electrification of buildings.

 

 

3.         IF ELECTED, WHAT STEPS WILL YOU TAKE TO ENSURE THAT ALL AMERICANS, REGARDLESS OF SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS, ARE ABLE TO BENEFIT FROM HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS?

​

If elected, I will prioritize ensuring that all Americans, regardless of socioeconomic status, benefit from healthy and sustainable buildings by taking the following steps: incentivizing green building practices, promoting energy efficiency in affordable housing, supporting the retrofitting of existing buildings, championing public-private partnerships, and providing education and advocacy. By taking these steps, we can ensure that the benefits of healthy, sustainable buildings are available to all Americans, regardless of their economic status, ultimately leading to healthier communities and a more sustainable future.

​

4.         IF ELECTED, WHAT STEPS WILL YOU TAKE TO TRAIN AND PREPARE PEOPLE FOR CLEAN ENERGY JOBS THAT ADVANCE SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS AND BUILDING COMPONENTS?

 

If elected, I will prioritize the creation of training programs specifically designed for clean energy jobs that contribute to sustainable buildings and building components. This will involve collaborating with local colleges, trade schools, and community organizations to develop curriculum and apprenticeships that focus on renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and geothermal systems. I will also work to secure federal and state funding to support these programs, ensuring that they are accessible to all, especially those from underserved communities. Additionally, I will advocate for policies that incentivize companies to hire and train workers in these emerging fields, thereby driving job growth in the clean energy sector and promoting sustainable development in our communities.

 

​

5.         ARE YOU WILLING TO WORK WITH THE BUILDING SECTOR TO MAKE SURE THAT TRANSFORMING BUILDINGS IS PART OF THE POLICY DEBATE IN CONGRESS, INCLUDING JOINING CAUCUSES THAT ADVOCATE FOR SUSTAINABLE BUILDING POLICIES? IF YES, HOW WILL YOU DO THAT?

 

Yes, I am fully committed to working with the building sector to ensure that transforming buildings is a central part of the policy debate in Congress. Sustainable building practices are crucial for reducing our carbon footprint and creating healthier living environments. If elected, I will actively join and support caucuses that advocate for sustainable building policies, such as the High-Performance Building Caucus. I plan to collaborate with industry experts, environmental groups, and legislators to develop and promote policies that encourage energy-efficient construction, the use of sustainable materials, and the retrofitting of existing buildings. Additionally, I will work to secure funding and incentives for green building initiatives to ensure that sustainability becomes a standard practice in the building sector. My goal is to help shape legislation that not only addresses current environmental challenges but also lays the foundation for a more sustainable future.

​

 

6.         DO YOU HAVE ANY PREVIOUS EXPERIENCES RELATED TO SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS (E.G., SUPPORTING LEGISLATION IN ELECTED OFFICE, MADE ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS TO A HOME, OFFICE, COMMUNITY-WIDE, ETC.)?

 

Yes, I have experience related to sustainable buildings and energy efficiency. I've been involved in supporting legislation aimed at promoting green energy initiatives and sustainable building practices. Additionally, I’ve made energy efficiency improvements in my own home and have advocated for community-wide adoption of similar practices. My focus has always been on practical solutions that reduce energy consumption and promote long-term sustainability. Whether through legislative efforts or personal actions, I am committed to advancing energy efficiency and supporting the development of sustainable communities.