Decarbonization Planning Guide

Create Implementation Timeline

An implementation timeline serves as a roadmap to guide you on your decarbonization journey. Developing a timeline results in sequential steps which align the measures identified within the GHG emissions reduction audit within a realistic timeline that considers everything you’ve thought about thus far—including enabling actions, replacement needs, investment triggers, and whether you’re pursuing a full or partial decarbonization pathway. 

The guidance should be flexible yet provide a clear picture of what steps are needed to prepare the building for necessary upgrades—and at what milestones. This will ensure that you’re prepared to make the right investments before any external factors or emergencies that force you to make an immediate decision, such as equipment failure. 

As an example, here is an implementation timeline for a hypothetical building with aging equipment and a planned tenant expiration. 

While developing a timeline, decide on a pathway informed by the scope of a GHG emissions audit as well as resources such as the Better Climate Checklist or ASHRAE 211 Appendix H guidelines. 

Some other things to keep in mind when developing an implementation timeline: 



1. Arrange steps in sequential order based on both technical and financial considerations. 
2. Document key events, goals, or other considerations which will trigger the need for equipment upgrades or system interventions. 
3. Align operational needs and potential solutions to mitigate disruption during construction activities. 
4. Assign dates and measurable outcomes to steps. 
5. Provide enough detail to guide planning and decision making. 
6. Track metrics and goals such as GHG emission reduction over time.