Welcome!
Projects can now certify to the Enterprise Green Communities 2026 standard! Start a new application in our application portal and access the 2026 tools and templates!
While you’re here, explore the program requirements by diving into the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria; learn the certification process, tools, and resources in our Certification Hub; and stay up to date on all updates and program news.
You can still access the 2020 Green Communities Criteria and tools here.
From Concept to Practice: Celebrating 20 Years of Enterprise Green Communities
How a bold idea scaled to a national green building standard
2026 Enterprise Green Communities
Over the course of two decades, Enterprise Green Communities has transformed the quality of affordable housing in America, with residents and communities at the center, driving and inspiring our work. The 2026 edition builds on 20 years of experience, engagement, and community care. The 2026 edition centers three themes:
Energy: Reducing energy use, cost, and emissions
Health: Enhancing the health and well-being of residents and communities
Resilience: Preparing now for livability in light of future hazards and risks
The 2026 Green Communities Criteria also features several refinements, including simplified and streamlined energy criteria, risk-management options for a variety of natural hazards, and many new and enhanced strategies for site safety, indoor air quality, universal design, and other ways to support health and well-being. Lastly, three performance tiers are available:
- Green Communities Certification: highly energy efficient
- Green Communities Certification Plus: highly energy efficient + all electric
- Green Communities Certification Plus Zero Emissions: highly efficient + all electric + all site energy supplied by clean energy sources
Ambassador Brief
If you’re interested in exploring more about how the Green Communities Criteria has changed, download our 2026 Ambassador Brief PDF today.
