Rob’s research seeks to strengthen the business case for net-zero affordable housing developments. He will evaluate the efficacy and replicability of Pacific Crest’s financial model which considers the long-term monetary impact of implementing various energy efficiency measures and renewable energy systems. He will analyze the energy performance of three completed projects and create calibrated energy models to understand the financial impacts of operating energy performance compared to original projections. The findings will inform the development of a tool and template that will be peer-reviewed and available to other affordable housing developers.

Rob Roy

Founder, Pacific Crest Affordable Housing

As a founding partner and co-manager of Pacific Crest Affordable Housing, Rob Roy has established himself as an industry leader by building some of the most energy-efficient affordable multifamily buildings in the nation. Rob has extensive experience with all facets of building and development, from financing and construction to planning and land use. His 32 years of experience navigating complex public-private partnerships, alongside his work as a three-time Olympic snowboarding coach, have refined his collaboration, negotiation and business skills.

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Making and Saving Energy on the Path to Net Zero: Best Practices and Tools for Affordable Multifamily Housing (PDF)

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Jeff’s research analyzes the relationship and interdependency between Passive House and Mass Timber strategies to help create energy-efficient, resilient and low-embodied carbon buildings. With a focus on three case study buildings, Jeff seeks to determine the optimal approach for each building type to meet net-zero carbon in 25 years. After a detailed comparison of exterior building assemblies and embodied carbon between stick-built and Mass Timber strategies, Jeff will compile his findings into an innovative resource guide.

Jeff Stern

Senior Associate, LEVER Architecture

With almost 30 years of experience practicing in the Northwest, Jeff has held broad and varying roles as project leader, designer, manager, technical resource and mentor. At LEVER Architecture, he helps lead the firm’s sustainability initiative and has been instrumental in the firm’s 2030 carbon commitment. As one of the first certified Passive House Consultants in Portland, Jeff completed numerous Passive House and nearly net-zero energy projects, some of which have been featured in Dwell, Architectural Record, and The Wall Street Journal. Jeff is passionate about projects that push the envelope of sustainability to help combat climate change, improve our neighborhoods and cities, and create spaces that inspire.