United States building energy codes

Building codes in the United States are a collection of regulations and laws adopted by state and local jurisdictions that set "minimum requirements for how structural systems, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), natural gas systems and other aspects of residential and commercial buildings should be designed and constructed." Built on a long history of fire and natural disaster protection, the foundational purpose of building codes is to protect "the health, safety, and welfare of the public" as it pertains to the design and construction of buildings. Codes vs. Standards vs. Model Codes There is a distinction to be made between codes, standards, and model codes. Though jurisdictions can adopt standards directly in a building code, "standard committees generally write standards with the intent that they become a component of a model code." While California and Pennsylvania adopted the new change, other states like New Hampshire delayed adoption of the code until 2012, and further, some states like Alaska, Texas, and Georgia opposed the addition of the provision to their building codes altogether. == Building Energy Codes: Development & Adoption ==

Model Energy Codes & Standards According to the U.S. Department of Energy, "energy codes and standards set minimum efficiency requirements for new and renovated buildings, assuring reductions in energy use and emissions over the life of the building." Being a part of the ICC's collection of model codes, the IECC is revised annually and published in full-form every three years. A prescriptive energy code delineates specific requirements or criteria for building components that must be fulfilled in order to be in compliance with the code. The performance path allows for some more flexibility, when compared to prescriptive codes. In each case, the adoption process usually includes an advisory body, review and revision process, and public hearings. For example, the Energy Conservation and Production Act (ECPA) requires the DOE "to provide technical assistance to states to support implementation of state residential and commercial building energy efficiency codes." Compliance & Enforcement Building energy code compliance is usually done at the local or municipal level by professionals trained to conduct field inspections and review construction plans. However, "compliance and enforcement of building energy codes is a key challenge, even in jurisdictions with advanced building code processes. Local governments are often the most critical actors in supporting effective compliance and building code enforcement." Building-focused energy conservation has the potential to greatly reduce global carbon emissions. A reduction in carbon emissions can reduce air pollutants, mitigate harmful effects of climate change, and drive positive impacts on overall wellbeing and health. Barriers and Drawbacks In certain circumstances, adopting the energy efficient technologies required to meet building energy codes may increase overall costs for a builder. This is made more apparent when trying to chart a path toward a specific goal such as energy efficiency and emissions reduction. In turn, it can present a barrier to energy code adoption. == See Also ==