On 13 November, I interviewed Kate Hickox from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) about their new Energy Justice and Equity (EJE) BEST tool. Developed over the past two years, this tool is designed to help building technology programs better track and enhance their impact on underserved communities. Alongside the tool, a 60-page guidance document enables organizations to measure their progress against Justice40 Initiative goals, ensuring that benefits reach disadvantaged communities (DACs).
Closing Energy Equity Gaps in Building Technology
During our conversation, Kate explained that the EJE-BEST tool and its guidance document emerged from a PNNL working group focused on energy access in commercial buildings. Their goal is clear: to ensure that clean energy programs benefit DACs directly. Too often, investments in commercial buildings fail to support their surrounding communities. As Kate pointed out, energy savings in a chain restaurant, for instance, may go back to corporate headquarters rather than staying local.
The EJE-BEST tool addresses this by helping programs focus on “community assets.” These assets include schools, libraries, and community centers—buildings that directly serve their neighborhoods. By targeting these essential spaces, the tool guides organizations toward making a real difference in underserved areas.
EJE-BEST Tool Reports and Core Features
Kate highlighted three key reports generated by the EJE-BEST tool:
- Progress Report: This report allows teams to track achievements, set goals, and identify next steps. Kate noted that it provides a roadmap, helping users adjust their efforts over time based on evolving priorities.
- Justice40 Report: For programs aiming to meet Justice40 goals, this report offers insights into the share of benefits reaching DACs and other underserved groups, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Feedback Report: This optional report allows users to send feedback directly to PNNL. Since the tool is a “living document,” Kate emphasized that ongoing user input will help PNNL refine it for even broader applications.
The EJE Guidance Document: A Detailed Resource for Inclusive Practices
The tool is accompanied by a 60-page guidance document that covers tracking benefits, setting goals, and engaging with stakeholders. This document provides specific instructions on using inclusive language, connecting with DACs, and measuring program impact over time. Though comprehensive, Kate suggested that users start here, as it answers common questions and offers practical advice.
According to Kate, this guidance document is essential for teams seeking to communicate their goals clearly while making sure DACs benefit from their work. To reach diverse audiences, the document also suggests communication methods from online content to print publications.
A Versatile Tool for Building Technology Stakeholders
The EJE-BEST tool, while designed for general building technology programs, has already piqued the interest of lighting designers and other industry professionals. Kate encourages all building industry stakeholders to try the tool, especially those working on energy-efficient technologies. She also invited users to provide feedback, as PNNL will continue refining the tool based on user experiences across different sectors.
Measuring Progress and Identifying Gaps
The EJE-BEST tool offers various tracking options, including metrics for diversity and inclusion as well as geographic impact. It can even highlight specific regions where project benefits are distributed, helping teams uncover underserved areas.
Although thorough, the tool may feel overwhelming at first. Kate acknowledged this and recommended starting gradually, with the guidance document and PNNL’s support available for assistance. She encouraged users to reach out with questions or feedback.
Conclusion: A Major Step Toward Equity in Building Technology
PNNL’s EJE-BEST tool and guidance document represent a significant step in integrating energy justice into building technology programs. Together, they offer a structured method for ensuring that clean energy initiatives benefit underserved communities in meaningful ways.
Available to all, the tool empowers organizations to set goals, measure progress, and assess their impact on equity. As Kate mentioned, PNNL will continue improving the tool based on user feedback. With resources like the EJE-BEST tool, building technology programs can prioritize equity, ensuring their work reaches the communities that need it most.
For more information, you can access the EJE-BEST tool and guidance here
Click here for more information about designing lighting’s (dl) Light Justice NOW Awards which will be presented at LightFair 2025 in Las Vegas.
Light Justice NOW Award