A resolution approving and providing for the execution of a proposed Grant Agreement between the City and County of Denver and the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) concerning the “Jurisdictional Support Subaward Grant” program and the funding therefor. Approves a grant agreement between Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) and the City and County of Denver for $2,000,000.00 with an end date of 9-14-2029 to support Denver’s goals of eliminating operating carbon emissions from buildings by 2040, citywide (CPLAN-202582301). The last regularly scheduled Council meeting within the 30-day review period is on 1-5-2026. The Committee approved filing this item at its meeting on 11-25-2025.

This resolution approves a $2,000,000 grant agreement between the City and County of Denver and the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG), funded by an EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. The grant term is from November 13, 2025, to September 14, 2029, and aims to support Denver's goal of eliminating operating carbon emissions from buildings by 2040.

Key Initiatives Funded:

• Increased Staff Capacity: Hiring two new mechanical inspectors and one energy plans reviewer to improve compliance with the 2025 Denver Energy Code, targeting 100% review of new residential construction and 75% of large additions, plus 100% inspection of mechanical energy code items.
• Permitting System Enhancements: Developing an interactive "Wizard" for commercial mechanical and plumbing permits and an AI-powered "Pre-Application Review" module to reduce permit issuance time from 2-4 weeks to 2 business days or less.
• Data Platform: Launching a system to capture and aggregate data on the market transformation from gas to electric equipment.
• Policy Research: Conducting research on innovative building decarbonization policies, including strategies for gas system decommissioning and embodied carbon in building codes.

This grant will lead to faster and more efficient permit approvals for commercial building upgrades, especially for heat pumps and other decarbonization equipment. It will also ensure better compliance with energy codes, contributing to more energy-efficient buildings and a healthier environment for all residents.

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