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The document outlines eleven strategic solutions to help companies achieve net-zero energy in corporate real estate. It categorizes these into 'organize' (securing C-suite support and multi-disciplinary teams), 'capitalize' (investing in smart building management, health-focused design, and external financing), and 'optimize' (using value-based approaches and portfolio-wide investment allocation). The report emphasizes that energy efficiency should be the first priority due to its cost-effectiveness and potential to improve employee productivity.

The executive summary introduces a guide for owner-occupants to capture the full value of deep energy retrofits, which are defined as those reducing energy consumption by 50 percent or more. It argues that these investments generate significant, quantifiable business value through non-energy benefits, such as improved employee health, productivity, and risk management. The document presents the RMI Retrofit Value Model, which links design and execution practices to direct and indirect outcomes, ultimately impacting property and enterprise performance. It details nine specific value elements—ranging from reduced health and employee costs to enhanced property-derived revenues—that professionals can use to build a comprehensive business case for deep retrofits.

The report identifies a significant gap between the perceived importance of energy efficiency and the actual implementation of management structures in corporate real estate. While executives view sustainability as a priority, fewer than half of surveyed companies have formal energy policies or quantitative targets. The document argues that most barriers are perceived and can be overcome through integrated design, senior leadership, and the adoption of comprehensive energy management systems. It highlights that 'low-hanging fruit'—such as retro-commissioning and schedule adjustments—are often overlooked in favor of more expensive system replacements. Through case studies of companies like Adobe, Toyota, and ABN AMRO, the report demonstrates that integrated solutions and real-time data tracking can lead to substantial cost savings and carbon reductions. It concludes with action plans for corporate stakeholders and service providers, urging the adoption of the 2030 Challenge targets to achieve carbon neutrality in the building sector.