Building Energy Codes 101

Building Energy Codes 101
An Introduction
Building energy code
basics and development

February 2010
PNNL-SA-70586

In order to provide a basic introduction to the varied and complex
issues associated with building energy codes, the U.S. Department of
Energy’s (DOE’s) Building Energy Codes Program (BECP), with valued
assistance from the International Codes Council (ICC) and the
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE), has prepared Building Energy Codes 101: An
Introduction. This guide is designed to speak to a broad audience with
an interest in building energy efficiency, including state energy officials,
architects, engineers, designers, and members of the public.
For these purposes, the term “Building Energy Codes” is used within
this document as a generic term that includes ASHRAE 90.1
(a standard), the IECC (a code), and other forms of building energy
standards, guidelines, laws, rules, etc. that are adopted as part of the
larger body of building codes and required to be satisfied as a
condition for approval to construct and occupy buildings.
For a more comprehensive discussion of building energy codes,
please refer to the additional resources referenced in the Appendix,
on the BECP website (www.energycodes.gov), and within the BECP’s
companion document, Energy Codes 201: An In-Depth Discussion,
to be published in the summer/fall of 2010. Energy Codes 201 will
provide in-depth information about the issues surrounding the
adoption, implementation and enforcement of both baseline and
beyond-code programs.

Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 1

Code benefits and challenges ................................................................................................................. 3

Code challenges ..................................................................................................................................... 3

Building energy code development ....................................................................................................... 5

Baseline codes: IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 ............................................................................................ 5

Code collaboration .................................................................................................................................. 5

In Detail: The IECC process .................................................................................................................. 6

How is the IECC Revised and who can participate? ....................................................................... 6

How are decisions about the IECC made? ...................................................................................... 6

What is the timing of the IECC Process? ......................................................................................... 6

In Detail: The ASHRAE 90.1 Process ................................................................................................... 7

How is ASHRAE 90.1 revised and who can participate? ................................................................ 7

How are decisions about ASHRAE 90.1 made? ............................................................................. 7

What is the timing of the ASHRAE 90.1 process? ........................................................................... 8

Adoption of energy codes at the state and local level .......................................................................11

Overview of the adoption process.........................................................................................................11

Timing the adoption and revision of state and local codes..................................................................11

How energy codes affect building design and construction ........................................................... 13

What Do Codes Mean for the Architect? ............................................................................................. 13

What Do Codes Mean for the Builder?................................................................................................ 13

Building envelope.................................................................................................................................. 14

Heating, ventilating, and cooling .......................................................................................................... 14

Lighting and electrical ........................................................................................................................... 14

Water heating ........................................................................................................................................ 14

Energy code enforcement and compliance ........................................................................................ 17

State enforcement................................................................................................................................. 17

Local enforcement ................................................................................................................................ 18

Compliance tools................................................................................................................................... 18

Beyond-code programs.......................................................................................................................... 21

The relationship between beyond-code programs and the baseline energy codes ........................ 21

Complying with beyond-code programs .............................................................................................. 21

Key, national beyond-code programs ................................................................................................. 21

Conclusion................................................................................................................................................ 25

Appendix

Endnotes

Contents iii

Introduction
The effects of energy use in buildings are nationwide,
worldwide, and varied. Having a fundamental impact on
people’s lives, these effects include the economic well-being
of the nation, the United States’ dependence on foreign oil,
and national security. On an individual basis, even human
health can be affected by building energy use when rising
energy costs render a conditioned, comfortable, healthy
indoor environment unaffordable. On a larger scale, carbon
emissions, which are directly tied to building energy use,
affect the health of our planet.

Some sobering statistics help drive home What can be done to curb the significant
the reality of building energy use: and ever-growing impact of building
energy use?
»Nearly 5 million commercial buildings and 115 million
residential households in the United States consume The adoption and enforcement of more stringent building
energy codes in communities across the country is a critical
nearly 40 percent of the nation’s total primary energy1
component. This document provides a basic introduction to
»Buildings consume 70 percent of electricity in the the many aspects of building energy codes, including their:
United States2
»Benefits in terms of the current energy, economic, and
»In 2007, carbon dioxide (CO ) emissions attributable
2 environmental challenges facing our world today
to lighting, heating, cooling, cooking, refrigeration,
water heating, and other building services totaled
»Challenges in terms of adoption, implementation,
compliance, and enforcement
2517 million metric tons3 – this is 40 percent of the
U.S. total and 8 percent of the global total. »Development processes led by the International Codes
Council (ICC) and American Society of Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE)
»Adoption and incorporation into building design and
construction by states and jurisdictions
»Enforcement at the state and local level.

More stringent building energy codes
are part of the energy solution

Introduction 1
1

Code benefits and challenges
Stringent building energy codes offer considerable benefits
4
that can be felt far into the future. Recent research shows
that if the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code®
5
(IECC) and ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004
were upgraded to be 30 to 50 percent more stringent, adopted
among states, and effectively implemented, significant
benefits would be gained in terms of energy consumption,
cost savings, and CO2 emissions reduction:

»Reduced energy consumption: The effects of
improved residential and commercial building While investing in energy efficiency can save money down
codes would reduce primary energy use in buildings the road, choosing less energy-efficient methods of design or
by approximately 0.5-quadrillion Btu per year by construction can save money now. Thus, builders are often
2015 and 3.5-quadrillion Btu per year by 2030. This challenged to justify the expense of incorporating energy-
saving measures.
is equivalent to power generated by 260 medium
(450-MW) power plants.6
»Building owner cost savings: By 2015, total annual Increasing building energy efficiency
dollar savings to building owners would be more than such as what is achieved by BECP’s
$4 billion. That figure may rise to over $30 billion by efforts, resulting in
2030. Even accounting for the increased investment
Less energy consumption
cost of the measures, the net benefits to the nation
Less cost for consumers
are large.
Less carbon added to the environment.
»Reduced CO emissions: CO
2 2 emissions would

be reduced by roughly 3 percent in terms of the
projected national CO2 emissions in 2030.
Consider this case in point: Studies show that transforming
the building sector to employ more energy-efficient designs,
Code challenges equipment, and solar power could cut projected overall
Though the savings of more stringent building energy codes
household energy expenses in 2030 from $285 billion to $130
is clear, there are challenges involved in their adoption,
billion. Failing to catalyze building-sector transformations will
implementation, compliance, and enforcement. For example,
raise the cost of meeting long-term climate goals by at least
adoption is not automatic in most states. Without statewide 7
$500 billion per year globally.
adoption, jurisdictions are left without state guidance or
resources, and builders can face a patchwork of codes The role of technology in building is also important and must
across their region. Adding complication, the challenges be balanced in terms of accessibility to the technology, ease
of implementation, compliance, and enforcement vary of use, and associated costs. Finally, human behavior must be
depending on the jurisdiction; lack of training as well as taken into account and can be influenced by public energy-use
lack of manpower are often cited as roadblocks to proper policies designed to create public awareness, empowerment,
enforcement. As with any aspect of building codes, plan and incentives.
review and inspections take time, and this must be accounted
for in department staffing. Training is critical to the design,
building, and enforcement communities. Not only is there
a need for understanding new code language, but new
construction techniques and new materials and technologies
must be considered and understood.

Code benefits and challenges 3

Building energy code
basics and develpment
development

Building energy code Both the IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 are
development developed, revised, and adopted in
8
Building energy codes are minimum requirements for energy-
open public forums.
efficient design and construction for new and renovated
9
residential and commercial buildings. A component of a updated every three years, providing a model the jurisdiction
complete set of building regulations that govern all aspects can adopt as is, or modify. Because the IECC is written in
of the design and construction of buildings, building energy mandatory, enforceable language, state and local jurisdictions
codes set an energy-efficiency baseline for the building can easily adopt, implement, and enforce the IECC as their
envelope, systems, and equipment. Improving these minimum energy code. Before adopting the IECC, state and local
requirements or broadening the scope of energy codes softens governments often make changes to reflect regional building
the environmental impact of buildings as well as generates practices, or state-specific energy-efficiency goals.
additional energy and cost savings over the decades-long, or
ASHRAE 90.1 is developed under the auspices of the American
even centuries-long, life cycle of a building.
Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning
Engineers using the ANSI consensus process, which requires a
Baseline codes: IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 balance of interests. All interested parties can participate by
Two primary baseline building energy codes may be adopted
addressing the committee during deliberations, participating
by states and local jurisdictions to regulate the design and
in subcommittees, or commenting during the public review
construction of new buildings: the International Energy
process. The final vote of the project committee includes
Conservation Code® (IECC), and the ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA
members from a balance of all interests, not limited to
Standard 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings except Low-Rise
government representatives. Revisions in the development and
Residential Buildings. The IECC addresses all residential
maintenance of the standard occur on an ongoing basis and
and commercial buildings. ASHRAE 90.1 covers commercial
are not approved without achieving this balanced consensus,
buildings, defined as buildings other than single-family
or substantial agreement reached by directly and materially
dwellings and multi-family buildings three stories or less above
affected interest categories. Before adopting ASHRAE 90.1,
grade. The IECC adopted, by reference, ASHRAE 90.1; that is,
state and local governments often make changes to reflect regional
compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 qualifies as compliance with
building practices, or state-specific energy-efficiency goals.
IECC for commercial buildings.
The IECC is developed under the auspices of the ICC using a Code collaboration
government consensus process. Per this process, all interested Both the IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 are developed, revised, and
parties may participate, but the final vote on the content of adopted in open public forums. The openness and transparency
the codes is made by individuals associated with federal, state, of these processes is critical to widespread acceptance of the end
or local governments who are also members of the ICC. The result. Stakeholders representing a cross-section of interests are
IECC is one of 14 model codes developed under the auspices of involved in maintaining these documents and include:
the ICC that combined provide the foundation for a complete » The design community, including architects, lighting,
set of building construction regulations. The ICC codes are designers, and mechanical and electrical engineers
» The code enforcement community, including building code
officials, representatives of code organizations, and state
✓ The IECC applies to both residential and and local regulatory agencies
commercial buildings. Updated about » Builders and contractors
every three years, the most current » Building owners and operators
» Industry and manufacturers for the building industry
version available is the 2009 IECC.
✓ ASHRAE 90.1 applies to commercial
» Utility companies
» Energy advocacy groups
buildings (including multi-family high-rise » The academic community
buildings). Also updated about every » Federal agency staff, including the Building Energy Codes
three years, the most current version Program (BECP).
available is ASHRAE 90.1-2007.

Building energy code development 5
5
5

Code maintenance relies on collaboration Code Change
Proposals
for a successful outcome. Submitted

Code maintenance relies on collaboration for a successful Code Public Comment
outcome. Collaboration keeps these documents current
Development Period Final Action
Hearing, Public Hearing,
with technological, economic, and policy concerns, giving Testimony, Challenges of Public
each stakeholder an opportunity to participate in updating Committee Vote, Code Development Testimony,
and maintaining the codes. This focus of building industry Possible Hearing Final Vote of
Assembly Vote, Governmental
resources at the national voluntary level is critical to a Proposed
Proposals Members
balanced and fair process, addressing such issues as market Submitted Modifications
viability, industry fairness, and construction costs, to name
just a few. Without the ICC, ASHRAE, or other organizations,
each federal agency, state agency, or local government agency New Code
would need to conduct the development of similar provisions Figure 1 • Every three years the IECC goes Published and
through a complete revision process.
Distributed by
themselves. Aside from the countless resources required, the Date Certain
uniformity of codes across jurisdictions—so critical for the
building industry—would be sacrificed. Building science
and building energy efficiency are just two considerations How are decisions about the IECC made?
in designing code changes. Energy codes and standards are
The committee receives testimony and then votes to
compromise documents forged from a wide range of issues
recommend a disposition on each change (approve, deny,
and concerns.
or approve as modified, at the hearing). The committee’s
decision may be overturned by a “floor action”—a two-thirds
In Detail: The IECC process affirmative vote of ICC members in attendance. The ICC
How is the IECC Revised and who can publishes the results of the first hearing and those wishing to
participate? challenge the results of the first hearing may submit a public
comment proposing the change. Their submission will place
The IECC is revised every three years per a well-defined
the code change on the agenda for a second public hearing.
revision process, as defined in Figure 1. Anyone may propose
All public comments are published so that interested parties
a revision to the IECC by submitting suggested changes to the
can present additional information on each change at a
code text along with supporting documentation. Proposed
second public hearing. The final disposition of all changes
code changes are commonly submitted by a number of
is then decided by a vote of the governmental members (as
representative stakeholders. The ICC publishes proposed
distinguished from industry members) of ICC in attendance
changes and distributes them to the public for review. This
at the second public hearing. The ICC process allows for an
review occurs about six weeks prior to an open public hearing
appeal to the ICC Board of Directors concerning the action
held to discuss the proposed revisions.
of the second hearing. Those changes approved at the second
At the public hearing, testimony for and against each code hearing are then implemented in the ICC codes and the
change proposal is presented to the Code Development finished documents represent the next edition of the ICC codes.
Committee responsible for a particular ICC code. Each
committee is typically composed of seven to 11 individuals
What is the timing of the IECC Process?
appointed by the ICC. The committee is represented Proposed changes to the IECC are submitted once during each
by government members, code officials, home builder three-year revision cycle by any interested and affected party.
representatives, industry groups, and other interested and Typically, proposed changes are submitted 18 months prior
affected parties. to the publication of a new version of the IECC. The Code
Development Hearings occur approximately six months after
the code change proposals are submitted. The results of the

Committee
In the 2012 ICC code cycle, BECP staff Proposes
and their collaborators proposed code Standard
changes for residential and commercial Changes
buildings. If adopted, these revisions
will increase building efficiencies by Public
30 percent over the level of the 2006 Review and
IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2004. Comment

Code Development Hearings are released three months after Substantive Comment
Changes Accepted
the hearings. Any interested and affected party is allowed to
submit public comments up to six months after the results are
released. The Final Action Hearings are held approximately
upheld
four months after public comments are received. The final Committee
printed version of IECC is typically released in the calendar Approval
year following the Final Action Hearings. The most recently Appeal of
published ICC energy code is the 2009 IECC. The final public Board
hearings for the 2012 IECC are scheduled for October 2010. ASHRAE Approval
All of the proposed changes approved during the final action Board of
hearings will be published in the 2012 IECC. Directors
Approval denied

In Detail: The ASHRAE 90.1 Process
How is ASHRAE 90.1 revised and who ANSI
can participate? Approval
ASHRAE 90.1 is continually maintained through the
development, review, and issuance of addenda to the Standard
with approved addenda collected and a new edition published New
Standards
every three years. ASHRAE establishes project committees
or Addenda
(the consensus body) of a minimum of five voting members Published
from a broad representation of stakeholders. In some
instances, ASHRAE will co-sponsor standard development.
In the case of ASHRAE 90.1, their co-sponsor is IES.
Figure 2 • ASHRAE 90.1 is continually maintained through the
development, review, and issuance of addenda, with approved
How are decisions about ASHRAE 90.1 made? addenda collected and a new edition published every three years.

After the committee proposes and approves, for public review,
addenda to the standard, those addenda are approved by the
Standards Project Liaison Subcommittee and are then made
available for public review. Commenters provide written
Approved interim revisions (called
comments and the committee must address those comments addenda) are posted on the ASHRAE
and attempt to resolve the commenter either by accepting their website in a supplement, once every
comment in some manner, or if not, advising the commenter 18 months, and are included in the
why their comment cannot be accepted. Once all commenters next published version.
indicate the issues are either resolved, are unresolved (but do
not wish to delay publication), or are unresolved, then the
revision to the standard moves forward for approval.


The committee responsible for the maintenance and revision What is the timing of the
of ASHRAE 90.1 for each addendum attempts to reach a
resolution with the commenter. In some cases, this requires
ASHRAE 90.1 process?
a further revision to the proposed addendum; in others, an A supplement to ASHRAE 90.1 is
impasse is reached. If the changes proposed are considered published once every 18 months and
non-substantive, then another public review is not necessary; the complete standard is published,
the revisions to the Standard will then move forward for with approved addenda, once every
publication approval. Changes deemed substantive require three years. However, anyone may
additional public review. Occasionally, when the committee propose a revision to the Standard at
maintaining and revising ASHRAE 90.1 feels the changes any time. Approved interim revisions
can be approved (either because there are no outstanding (called addenda) are posted on the
unresolved comments, or if there are some, they are resolved or ASHRAE website in a supplement,
cannot be resolved), the revisions to the standard are submitted once every 18 months, and are included
for approval to the ASHRAE Standards Committee, the in the next published version. Key
Technology Council, and then the Board of Directors. activities relating to revisions, including responding to
public comments and continuous maintenance change
Those who have submitted unresolved comments can appeal
proposals, typically occur during one of ASHRAE’s annual
the Board of Directors’ approval. An ASHRAE Appeals Panel
(June) or winter (January) meetings. Public review of the
reviews the record and addresses the appeal. If the appeal is
Standard typically occurs two months after one of these
upheld by the panel, the revision is sent back to the ASHRAE
meetings in either March or September.
90.1 committee for further work. If it is not upheld, the Board
of Directors’ approval stands, the addendum is approved by
the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and the
addendum proceeds to publication if no appeals are received
at ANSI. Unresolved commenters that have completed the
ASHRAE appeals process may appeal the ANSI approval of
the addendum. If the appeals at ANSI are denied or no appeals
are received, then the addendum is published.

Adoption of energy codes
at the state and local level

Adoption of energy codes at 3. The results of the review process are incorporated
into the proposal, and the final legislation or
the state and local level regulation is prepared for approval.
Adoption of energy codes can occur directly through legislative 4. The approving authority reviews the legislation
action or by regulatory action through agencies authorized by or regulation. Revisions may be submitted to the
the legislative body to oversee the development and adoption designated authority for final approval or for filing.
of codes. When adoption is accomplished through legislation,
a committee may be appointed to provide recommendations
5. After being filed or approved, the code becomes
and/or draft the legislation. When adoption occurs through a effective, usually on some specified future date.
regulatory process, states and local governments often appoint This delay creates a grace period that allows
an advisory body comprising representatives of the design, those regulated to become familiar with any new
building construction, and enforcement communities. This requirements. The period between adoption and
advisory panel recommends revisions that should be considered effective date typically varies from 30 days to six
for adoption. In basing their recommendations on model months.
energy codes, the advisory panel considers modifications to the
model codes to account for local preferences and construction
practices. The panel also may serve as a source of information
during the adoption process. Their recommendations then enter Visit www.energycodes.gov/implement/
a public review process. state_codes/ for more information on the
adoption rates and compliance plans of
Overview of the adoption process each state.
The code adoption process generally includes the following steps
(note that the details of the adoption process vary depending on
whether the energy code is adopted by legislation, regulation, or Timing the adoption and revision of state
a local government): and local codes
1. A change is initiated by a legislative or regulatory Some states adopt or revise energy codes in concert with
agency with the authority to promulgate energy codes. the publication of a new edition of new codes, such as the
ICC Codes or ASHRAE Standard. This may occur either
Interested or affected parties also may initiate a
through a legislative or regulatory process, or when the state
change. An advisory body typically is convened and
regulation or legislation refers to “the most recent edition,”
will recommend a new energy code or revisions to an
in which case the adoption will simply occur automatically
existing energy code.
without formal action. The effective date of a new adoption
2. The proposal undergoes a public review process can also be tied to the publication date of an energy standard
consistent with the legislative or regulatory process or model energy code, e.g., “This regulation shall take effect
under which the code is being considered. Public review one month from publication of the adopted model energy
options include publishing a notice in key publications, code.”
filing notices of intent, or holding public hearings. Other states review the new editions on a case-by-case
Interested and affected parties are invited to submit basis to consider adoption, without a designated time
written or oral comments. line for adoption.

Adoption of energy codes at the state and local level 11
11

How energy codes affect building
design and construction

How energy codes insulation levels and efficient windows coupled with an efficient
lighting system will reduce the heat loss from the building
affect building design and heat gain from the lighting system. With such efficiencies

and construction
in place, the HVAC contractor can optimize the heating and
cooling system to reduce the higher first costs of the building’s
Baseline building energy codes—the IECC and ASHRAE increased efficiencies. The benefit for the building owner is
90.1—currently address the energy-efficiency requirements reduced utility bills for the life of the building.
for the design, materials, and equipment used in nearly all Architects can learn about compliance with the IECC and
new construction, additions, renovations, and construction ASHRAE 90.1 through training provided and sponsored
techniques. Their requirements affect the overall energy by the American Institute of Architects. AIA also provides
efficiency of any structure and can reduce the energy needed training on going above code to promote integration of energy-
to maintain a healthy, comfortable, and fully functioning efficient and sustainable design into new buildings.
indoor environment. Quite comprehensive in nature, the codes
apply to:
What Do Codes
»Wall, floor, and ceiling Mean for the
»Doors and windows Builder?
»Heating, ventilating, and cooling systems and Builders face similar
equipment compliance challenges
»Lighting systems and equipment with local building codes
»Water-heating systems and equipment. and applicable energy
codes. They must keep
Note that both the IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 provide for
the building within
exceptions; however, one can typically assume their building
budget, whether it is
must comply with the code.
established by the building owner or their own business model.

What Do Codes The builder must select products and materials that best fit
the design of the building and satisfy the requirements of the
Mean for the energy code. For example, the builder may use 2” X 6” studs
Architect? (instead of 2” X 4”) for walls in a home so that higher levels
Architects need to of insulation can be installed to meet the code. Increasing the
design buildings that wall framing sizing will impact the cost of finish materials used
meet all the adopted in the building and may affect its design.
local building codes
As with architects, builders must collaborate with their
within the building
subcontractors to take advantage of the reduction in system
owner’s budget.
sizes that result from the increased efficiencies installed in the
Complying with a
building. Buildings that comply with an energy code will have
building energy code is an additional challenge and affects the
higher levels of efficient materials and systems, leading to a
design of all building systems (e.g., building envelope, heating,
decrease in the first cost for the efficiency measures.
ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC), and lighting).
Complying with energy codes also affects the materials The National Association of Homebuilders Research Center
selected for the building by requiring, for example, glazing developed construction techniques for residential construction
with correct efficiencies, proper insulation levels, and lighting that will reduce the first cost of the building while still ensuring
controls that meet the intent of the code. the home meets the structural requirements set by the code. By
using advanced design practices a building can be built with a
To minimize the first cost for the project, the architect must
minimal increase in first cost and also comply with the energy
work collaboratively with the HVAC and lighting designer
code. Ultimately, the building owner will benefit with reduced
to optimize the building design and take advantage of the
energy bills and a comfortable, healthy home.
increased efficiencies in the building. For example, increased

How energy codes affect building design and construction 13

Building envelope
Local climate plays a role in the energy
code requirements for the material
selection and techniques used to construct
the building envelope. Code requirements
specify the insulation levels in the floor,
ceiling, and walls and are intended to seal
the building against air leakage and moisture migration. The
defined energy-efficiency levels of doors and windows take
into consideration heat loss and gain, depending on whether
heating or cooling of the building is the predominant concern,
and daylighting. Designers and contractors must make sure
that the building materials and installation are completed as
specified for the building to comply with the code.

Heating, ventilating, and cooling
HVAC systems are composed of
equipment that creates conditioned air
or tempered liquid, conveys air or liquid
through passageways (ducts and plenums)
or pipes, and automatically regulates the
amount to be conveyed via recirculation
or exhausting. HVAC system efficiency can be improved by
adding equipment that can convert delivered gas or electric
power efficiently or by using economizers, which allow the
automatic use of outside air or allow users to regulate space
conditions. Energy codes provide minimum criteria for the size
of HVAC systems and equipment, taking into consideration
the energy demands of the building space.

Lighting and electrical
Energy efficiency for lighting is gained
by using efficient sources of illumination,
considering the number and location
of lights throughout the space, and
considering the control systems for
appropriate operation. The energy codes
provide minimum criteria to provide effective lighting control.
Motor and transformer efficiency is also covered in this area.

Water heating
Water-heating energy efficiency
depends upon water-heating equipment,
delivery, and operational controls.
Energy codes provide minimum
criteria to effectively heat and deliver
hot water.

How energy codes affect building design and construction 15

Energy code enforcement
and compliance

Energy code enforcement Building
and compliance Energy Code
Enforcement, or making sure that a building is in compliance
with an energy code, is the last step in the building process.
Like the other steps on the path—energy code development State
through the ICC and ASHRAE processes, adoption of Government
those codes by states and jurisdictions, and code-compliant
design and construction—enforcement is critical to realizing yes no
energy efficient buildings. The responsibility to enforce the
building energy code falls upon states or jurisdictions, and State Code
the responsibility to comply with the building energy code
falls on developers, designers, and contractors. Education and
communication regarding energy codes are vital to the effective
Architects Review plans
delivery of both enforcement and compliance.
and Engineers Review products, materials
Enforcement strategies will vary according to a state or local equipment specifications
government’s regulatory authority, resources, and manpower Review tests, certification
reports, product listings
and may include all or some of the following activities:
Inspect building and its
»Review of plans systems during construction
Evaluate materials
»Review of products, materials, and equipment Building
Construction substituted in the fields
specifications
Inspect prior to occupancy
»Review of tests, certification reports, and product listings
»Review of supporting calculations
»Inspection of the building and its systems during Save Energy
construction and Money
»Evaluation of materials substituted in the field Reduce Carbon
Emmissions
»Inspection immediately prior to occupancy.
Figure 3 • The responsibility to enforce the building energy code falls
State enforcement upon states or jurisdictions, and the responsibility to comply with
States generally enforce the energy code for state-owned or the building energy code falls on building owners, and developers,
state-financed construction. Depending on the resources of the designers, contractors.
local government, some states enforce energy code for certain
building types or locations. Plan review is typically performed
by one office. Though there may be numerous state field
inspectors, both review and inspection agencies are controlled
by one organization. The building construction community
benefits because this arrangement offers them a single point of
contact from plan review to building inspection. State resources
determine the extent of building plan reviews and construction
inspections. When resources are limited, fire and safety codes
can take precedence over energy code enforcement.

Energy code enforcement and compliance 17

Local enforcement DOE’s easy-to-use code
.
Where local agencies are authorized and have the resources compliance software,
they will enforce the adopted codes. The proximity of local REScheck and COMcheck,
agencies to the construction site and design community offers
as well as associated
training and support
the potential for more regular enforcement. As with states, the resources, are available for
availability of resources determines the extent to which plan download at no cost at
reviews and construction inspections can be performed. Also www.energycodes.gov/
compliance_tools.stm.
as with states, resource limitations can affect enforcement of
energy codes when the local agencies are also responsible for
fire and safety code enforcement.
Because jurisdictions vary, local enforcement may lead
Compliance tools
An important focus of education and training for building
to differences in the rate of code compliance across a
energy code enforcement and compliance are the tools
state. Compliance is enhanced when a state code agency
available to facilitate enforcement and compliance. BECP,
actively supports local governments in its efforts to enforce
ICC, ASHRAE, and other organizations all supply tools and
the state code. Some states allow local jurisdictions to
materials that make building energy code implementation
conduct enforcement activities that are usually the state’s
and training easier for states and local jurisdictions. (See the
responsibility. This strategy offers the advantages associated
appendix for additional resources.)
with state enforcement, recognizes those local governments
with equivalent enforcement capabilities, and helps ensure There are several common methods available to document
comparable levels of compliance. Continued state assistance compliance, including prescriptive forms, software-generated
helps to ensure a consistent level of enforcement by local forms, and modeling runs. Local jurisdictions can generate
jurisdictions. A hybrid approach might involve the state simplified prescriptive forms, typically for residential
conducting the plan review, and the local authority conducting construction. The one- or two-page form lists the minimum
the construction inspection. requirements for that climate zone, allowing the applicant to
simply show the appropriate details on the submitted plans,
It is important to note that compliance will be increased if the
and fill out the form, noting insulation levels, efficiencies, and
adopting agency provides resources to the code officials to
the like.
enforce the energy code and prepares the building construction
community to comply with it. It is also important for all Software programs such as REScheck™ and COMcheck™
stakeholders to know when a new code is expected and can also be used to demonstrate compliance. The user inputs
understand its requirements. Many states or jurisdictions start building component areas, efficiencies, and other specifications
this education process several months in advance of an energy to generate a compliance report. The software allows flexibility
code change—often before adoption of the code itself. The and trade-offs between components. For example, a designer
more publicity and training on the new code, the more it will may choose to include a greater glass area on a particular wall
be accepted and used. for a view corridor, and compensate by increasing insulation
levels elsewhere.

Energy codes enforcement and compliance 19

Beyond-code programs Complying with beyond-code programs
Each jurisdiction adopting a beyond-code program or stretch
Progressive states and local jurisdictions with a focus on energy
code must determine how they will verify compliance. This
efficiency and/or sustainability are increasingly building upon
will vary depending on the type of program and staffing.
the baseline building energy codes and adopting beyond-code
Often, when adherence to a third-party program (such as
programs, either as their minimum codes or as a component
ENERGY STAR® or LEED) is required, the jurisdiction will
of a program that provides incentives to those that comply.
require submittal of verification from the third-party program.
The programs are referred to in various terms–beyond-code
When the program is locally developed, such as the City of
programs, green building programs or codes, stretch codes,
Albuquerque, it becomes the code for which the department
and above-code programs. What they have in common as a key
conducts plan reviews and inspections. When the program
component is building energy efficiency; they may have more
specifies a percentage above the IECC or ASHRAE 90.1,
rigorous requirements than minimum energy codes and/or
REScheck, COMcheck, or other modeling techniques such as
address additional issues not covered in the energy codes.
Energy Plus, can be used and submitted for plan review.

The relationship between beyond-code
programs and the baseline energy codes Beyond-code programs may have more
Designers, builders, plan reviewers, inspection staff, and all rigorous requirements than minimum
interested parties still need to thoroughly understand the energy codes and/or address additional
underlying baseline energy code when working with a beyond-
issues not covered in the energy codes.
code program.
Most beyond-code programs use the IECC and/or ASHRAE
90.1 as a baseline, with additional requirements beyond that.
Jurisdictions are both mandating these programs and offering
them with incentives to those who voluntarily comply. They Key, national beyond-code programs
vary widely in scope–from a simple requirement to comply Home Energy Rating System: Commonly known as HERS,
10 percent above the current IECC, to comprehensive programs this system rates the energy efficiency of a home. The rating
such as Green Globes, a product of the Green Building involves analysis of the home’s construction plans and at least
Initiative, and the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) one onsite inspection. This information is used to estimate
Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED). As of the home’s annual energy costs and give the home an index
August 2009, there were over 300 such programs adopted by between 0 and 100. The higher the score, the more efficient
states and jurisdictions nationwide. the home. Jurisdictions such as Boulder County, Colorado,
Initially serving as a proving ground, beyond-code programs have mandated a particular HERS index for new residential
are used to make efficiency improvements in the residential and construction. (www.natresnet.org)
commercial building marketplace which, over time, become ENERGY STAR: The U.S. Environmental Protection
acceptable as a typical practice and are often submitted to the Agency outlines criteria for ENERGY STAR certification
ICC or ASHRAE processes as a code change proposal. High- of homes and commercial buildings. ENERGY STAR
efficacy lighting systems for residential homes is one example homes are typically 15 percent more energy efficient than
of this process. These lighting systems have been included in average minimum energy codes. New York State allows local
incentive programs for some time and are now required in jurisdictions to adopt ENERGY STAR as their minimum
the IECC. A second example is the New Building Institute’s residential energy code and many, such as Brookhaven, have
Core Performance Guide, which has also been codified and done so. (www.energystar.gov)
submitted as proposed code change to increase the efficiency
of commercial buildings.

Beyond-code programs 21
21

EarthCraft House: EarthCraft House is built upon ENERGY ASHRAE 189: Standard for the Design of High-Performance,
STAR and the 2006 IECC. Developed by Southface Energy Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, was
Group, Inc. in partnership with the U.S. Department of published in January 2010. The standard was developed in
Energy’s (DOE’s) Building America, EarthCraft House is conjunction with IES and USGBC and is applicable to new
a points-based program that includes ENERGY STAR commercial buildings and major renovation projects. This
certification in its baseline. The program is used in Alabama, code addresses energy efficiency, a building’s impact on the
South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia. The City of atmosphere, sustainable sites, water-use efficiency, materials
Nashville offers incentives for EarthCraft homes. and resources, and indoor environmental quality. ASHRAE/
(www.earthcrafthouse.com/About/newhomes.htm) IES/USGBC Standard 189 was developed for inclusion into
Building America: This is an industry-driven research program, building codes. (www.ashrae.org/publications/page/927)
sponsored by DOE, designed to accelerate the development LEED for New Construction and Major Renovation: This LEED
and adoption of advanced building energy technologies in program requires a minimum 10 percent compliance beyond
new and existing homes. (www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ ASHRAE 90.1-2007. Developed by the USGBC, LEED is a
building_america) green building certification system, providing third-party
Collaborative for High Performance Schools: This standard verification addressing energy savings, water efficiency, CO2
mandates energy efficiency 25 percent above ASHRAE emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality,
90.1-2004. Originally a California standard, it is being revised and stewardship of resources with sensitivity to their impacts.
for regional factors and adopted by states and school districts There is a suite of LEED programs focused on various building
across the country. (www.chps.net) types, or stages of occupancy. Many federal agencies, states,
and local jurisdictions have mandated or encouraged LEED
Core Performance Guide: Use of this guide results in
certification for municipal buildings. Local jurisdictions,
commercial buildings that are 20 to 30 percent more efficient
such as Rohnert Park, California (mandatory) and Charlotte
than ASHRAE 90.1-2004 buildings. Developed by the New
County, Florida (voluntary) have adopted LEED as their
Buildings Institute, this fee-based program is available
standard. (www.usgbc.org)
nationally. It is designed for commercial buildings from
10,000 to 70,000 square feet. The State of Massachusetts IGCC: The International Green Construction Code (IGCC) is
recently adopted this as the commercial section of currently under development in conjunction with the American
Appendix 120.AA known as the “stretch code.” Society for Testing and Materials and the AIA. The IGCC
(www.newbuildings.org) will be applicable to all new construction and renovation to
existing buildings other than residential structures. It will
NAHB Green Guidelines: These guidelines have a typical
effectively mesh with the other ICC codes for ease of adoption
energy efficiency of 15 to 40 percent above 2003 IECC or
with building regulations based on the ICC codes. It is
local code. First published in 2005, the National Association
performance-based and allows adopting entities to determine
of Home Builders (NAHB) Model Green Home Building
which provisions of the code are applicable to their needs.
Guidelines were written by a group of builders, researchers,
Covered issues are siting, materials, energy, air quality, and
environmental experts, and designers to provide guidance for
water, not only in the design and construction phase, but
builders interested in green building products and practices
through commissioning and actual operation of the building.
for residential design, development, and construction. The
(www.iccsafe.org)
Guidelines were also written to serve as a “baseline” so that
NAHB members could easily develop local programs. Local
jurisdictions and utilities promote the program and provide
verification, such as in Pierce County, Washington, where it is
supported by Washington State Department of Ecology, Puget
Sound Energy, and Tacoma Power.
(www.nahbgreen.org/Guidelines/nahbguidelines.aspx)

ICC-700-2008 National Green Building Standard, 2008: This
standard exceeds the 2006 IECC by a minimum of 15 percent.
The ICC-700-2008 National Green Building Standard defines
green building for single and multi-family homes, residential
remodeling projects, and site development.
(www.nahbgreen.org/Guidelines/ansistandard.aspx)
Locally Developed Programs: Jurisdictions have also
adopted energy codes and beyond-code programs that have
been locally developed. Primary examples are the City of
Albuquerque’s 2009 Interim Energy Conservation Code (www.
cabq.gov/planning/bldgsafety) and Boulder County Colorado’s
BuildSmart Program. (www.bouldercounty.org/lu/buildsmart).

Beyond-code programs 23

Conclusion
Building energy codes can play a key role in reducing building
energy costs, our nation’s reliance on foreign oil, and carbon
emissions as well as in increasing the comfort of our homes and
offices. Though the building energy codes world is not without
its challenges, the benefits far outweigh the barriers. Crafted in
open public forums, all stakeholders and interested and affected
parties are welcome to participate in the building energy codes
development processes. And the processes used to update both
the IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 are designed to make sure the
interests of varied stakeholders are considered, including those As code cycles iterate from one to the next,
pertaining to industry, of importance to building scientists, and today’s beyond-code programs become the
affecting financial viability. Building energy codes are readily baseline of tomorrow. Ultimately, the energy
available for states and jurisdictions to adopt, and a broad range codes community will converge on its true goal
of enforcement and compliance tools are available to help policy —buildings with zero energy use.
makers, designers, builders, and the enforcement community
successfully implement building energy codes. Building energy
codes are a baseline of energy efficiency that constantly drive
beyond-code programs to improve. As code cycles iterate from
one to the next, today’s beyond-code programs become the
baseline of tomorrow. Ultimately, the energy codes community
will converge on its true goal—buildings with zero energy use.

Conclusion 25
25

Appendix
Following is a description of and contact information for all organizations and groups
mentioned in the document, in addition to other national and regional resources.

Description Contact
National Contacts and Resources 10

The International Code Council (ICC) is a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire www.iccsafe.org
prevention. ICC develops the codes and standards used to construct residential and commercial buildings,
including homes and schools. ICC is the publisher of the International Energy Conservation Code. They are a ICC
resource for code books and training. Local chapters are active in most states. They are the publisher of the 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor,
ICC-700-2008 National Green Building Standard, and the International Green Construction Code currently Washington, D.C. 20001
under development in conjunction with the American Society for Testing and Standards (ASTM) and the AIA. Phone: 888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233)

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is an international www.ashrae.org
membership organization of advancing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration through
research, standards writing, publishing, and continuing education. They are a resource for standards, ASHRAE
education, research, and training. Local chapters are active throughout the country. They are the publisher of 1791 Tullie Circle, N.E.
ASHRAE 189, currently under development in conjunction with IESNA and USGBC and is being developed for Atlanta, GA 30329
inclusion into building codes.
Toll-free for Customer Service:
800-527-4723
(U.S. and Canada only)
Phone: 404-636-8400
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (USDOE) Building Energy Codes Program is an information resource on www.energycodes.gov
national energy codes. They work with other government agencies, state and local jurisdictions, national code
organizations, and industry to promote stronger building energy codes and help states adopt, implement, and
enforce those codes.

American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the leading professional membership association for licensed www.aia.org
architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners.
American Institute of Architects
The American Institute of Architects
1735 New York Ave. NW
Washington, D.C. 20006-5292
Phone: 800-AIA-3837 or 202-626-7300

Energy & Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA). The stated mission of EEBA is to provide education www.eeba.org
and resources to transform the residential design, development, construction, and remodeling industries to
profitably deliver energy efficient and environmentally responsible buildings and communities. EEBA
6520 Edenvale Boulevard, Suite 112
Eden Prairie, MN 55346
Phone: 952-881-1098

The Building Codes Assistance Project (BCAP) provides advocacy at the state and regional level, serves as www.bcap-energy.org
clearinghouse for energy code information, develops resources to support code compliance, and provides
energy code training and workshops. Building Codes Assistance Project
1850 M Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, D.C. 20036

The Alliance to Save Energy’s (ASE) stated mission is to promote energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a www.ase.org
healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security. With relation to building energy codes,
they are involved in policy advocacy, energy-efficiency projects, technology development and deployment, and Alliance to Save Energy
public-private partnerships. 1850 M Street, NW, Suite 600
Phone: 202-530-4356

Description Contact
The New Buildings Institute (NBI) works with national, regional, state and utility groups to promote improved www.newbuildings.org
energy performance in commercial new construction, managing projects involving building research, design
guidelines and code activities, and as a conduit of information between the stakeholders. They are a source New Buildings Institute
of information on high-performance buildings, and developers of the fee-based Core Performance Guide for Core Performance Guide
commercial construction. P.O. Box 2349
White Salmon, WA 98672
Phone: 509-493-4468

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is a national trade association focused on policy, www.nahb.org
education, and research. They have produced the Model Green Home Building Guidelines and co-sponsored
the ICC-700-2008 National Green Building Standard. National Association of Home Builders
1201 15th Street, NW
Toll Free Phone: 800-368-5242
Local Phone: 202-266-8200
Regional Code Organizations – Most states belong to a regional code organization which will support their efforts to advance building energy codes.
They provide policy guidance, access to research, training, etc.

Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP) is a regional non-profit organization that promotes greater www.Swenergy.org
energy efficiency in a six-state region that includes Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and
Wyoming and facilitates regional partnerships. Their programs include buildings and energy codes, utilities, Southwest Energy Efficiency Project
transportation, industrial efficiency and combined heat and power. 2260 Baseline Rd. #212
Boulder, CO 80302
For general requests:
Email: info@swenergy.org
Phone: 303-447-0078
Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership (NEEP) is a regional non-profit organization that facilitates regional www.neep.org
partnerships to advance the efficient use of energy in homes, buildings, and industry in the Northeast U.S.
states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Northeast Energy Efficiency
Vermont. Partnerships, Inc.
5 Militia Drive
Lexington, MA 02421
Phone: 781-860-9177

Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) is a regional non-profit organization that facilitates regional www.mwalliance.org
partnerships. As a central source for information and action, MEEA raises awareness, facilitates energy
efficiency programs, and strengthens policy across the Midwest region. Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
645 N Michigan Ave Ste 990
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-587-8390

Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) is a regional non-profit organization that facilitates regional www.nwalliance.org
partnerships, whose stated mission is to mobilize the Northwest to become increasingly energy efficient for a
sustainable future. NEEA works with the states of Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Oregon. Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
529 SW Third Ave., Suite 600
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 800-411-0834 or 503-827-8416

Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance (SEEA) is a regional non-profit organization that facilitates regional www.seealliance.org
partnerships to promote and achieve energy efficiency through networking, program activities, and education.
MEEA is active in the 11-state region of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance
Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. P.O. Box 13909
Atlanta, Ga. 30324
Phone: 866-900.7332 or 404-931-1518

Description Contact
Beyond-Code Programs, Third Party Verified and Codified.

ENERGY STAR: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency outlines criteria for ENERGY STAR certification www.energystar.gov
of homes and commercial buildings.
The U.S. DOE’s Building America forms research partnerships with all facets of the residential building www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/
industry to improve the quality and energy efficiency of homes. The goal is to develop cost effective solutions building_america/
that reduce the average energy use of housing by 40% to 100%. Ultimately, Building America research will
lead to net zero energy homes, which produce as much energy as they use. Office of Building Technologies
EE-2J / Forrestal Building
U.S. Department of Energy
1000 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C., 20585-0121
Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) is an industry, membership-based non-profit organization that www.natresnet.org/
has established national standards for building energy efficiency rating systems. They provide training and
certification for raters using their HERS Index rating system, establishing third-party verification protocol. RESNET
P.O. Box 4561
Oceanside, CA 92052-4561
Phone: 760-806-3448

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization www.usgbc.org
with a stated mission of market transformation through its LEED green building certification program, robust
educational offerings, a nationwide network of chapters and affiliates, the annual Greenbuild International USGBC
Conference & Expo, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings U.S. Green Building Council
and communities. A complete listing of federal and state agencies, local jurisdictions, etc., that has adopted 2101 L Street, NW, Suite 500
LEED as a mandatory certification or voluntary goal can be found on USGBC’s website. Washington, D.C. 20037

The Green Building Initiative (GBI) is a not-for-profit organization whose stated mission is to accelerate www.thegbi.org
the adoption of building practices that result in energy efficient, healthier, and environmentally sustainable
buildings by promoting credible and practical green building approaches for residential and commercial The Green Building Initiative
construction. They are the U.S. licensor of Green Globes™ environmental assessment and rating tool. 2104 SE Morrison
Portland, OR 97214
Phone: 877-GBI-GBI1 (877-424-4241)

The Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) is a non-profit membership organization whose www.chps.net
stated mission is to make schools better places to learn. It was founded in collaboration with California’s
major utilities to address energy efficiency in schools. The program addresses all aspects of school design, Collaborative for High Performance
construction and operation, providing design guidelines, policy guidance to school districts, and states. Schools 142 Minna Street, Second Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: 415-957-9888

The EarthCraft House program is a program of Southface Energy Group, Inc. developed in partnership with www.earthcrafthouse.com
U.S. DOE’s Build America Program.
EarthCraft House
Southface Energy Institute,
241 Pine Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: 404-604-3636
Examples of Jurisdictions use of Beyond Code Programs and Third Party Verification

Boulder County, Colorado is an example of a jurisdiction with a mandated HERS index. www.bouldercounty.org/lu/buildsmart/

Boulder County Land Use Department
PO Box 471, Boulder, CO 80306
Phone: 303-441-3930

Description Contact
Brookhaven, New York is an example of a jurisdiction with a mandated residential ENERGY STAR http://www.brookhaven.org/DesktopModules/
certification. Bring2mind/DMX/Download.aspx?TabId
=134&DMXModule=1576&Command=Co
re_Download&EntryId=586&PortalId=0

Brookhaven, New York
Office of the Supervisor
One Independence Hill
Farmingville, NY 11738
Phone: 631-451-6955

Massachusetts’s “Stretch Code” is gaining national attention as a progressive approach to incrementally www.mass.gov/?pageID=eopsmodulechunk
increasing building efficiency for residential and commercial construction. &L=3&L0=Home&L1=Public+Safety+Agenc
ies&L2=Massachusetts+Department+of+Pu
blic+Safety&sid=Eeops&b=terminalcontent
&f=dps_bbrs_build_code_changes_public_
hearing&csid=Eeops

Email: mike.guigli@state.ma.us

Pierce County, Washington is an example of a jurisdiction partnering with state and local utilities to support a www.builtgreenpierce.com/
voluntary third-party beyond code program. professionals.php

Office Address
1120 Pacific Ave. #301
Tacoma, WA 98401
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1913
Tacoma, WA 98401
Phone: 253-272-2112
Examples of Locally Developed Programs11
City of Albuquerque’s 2009 Interim Energy Conservation Code was implemented on December 1, 2009. www.cabq.gov/planning/bldgsafety/
Volume I is Commercial and Multi-Family Residential, Volume II is One and Two Family Detached Dwellings
and Townhouses. They are identified by the city as one element of the Mayor’s effort to achieve the goals of City of Albuquerque
the 2030 Challenge ensuring new buildings are carbon neutral by the year 2030. The City plans to develop Planning Department
incentives through its Green Building Program to encourage building designs that will exceed the level set by 600 2nd St. NW
the 2009 Albuquerque Energy Conservation Code. And, with guidance from the Green Ribbon Task Force, Albuquerque, NM 87103
amend, at regular intervals, the 2009 Albuquerque Energy Conservation Code to keep pace with new energy Phone: 505-924-3860
conservation technologies.

Boulder County’s BuildSmart program is one example of a mandatory, locally-developed beyond-code www.bouldercounty.org/lu/buildsmart/
program. It includes a HERS index threshold dependent upon home size.
Land Use Department
Building Safety & Inspection
Services Division
Courthouse Annex Building
2045 13th Street
P.O. Box 471
Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: 303-441-3925

Endnotes
1
Energy Information Administration, Annual Energy Review 2007, Figure 2.1a, Energy Consumption by Sector Overview.
http://www.eia.doe.gov/emeu/aer/consump.html.
2
U.S. Energy Information Administration. Electric Power Annual Report. Table 7.2. Retail Sales and Direct Use of Electricity to Ultimate Customers by Sector,
by Provider, 1996 through 2007 (Megawatthours). http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/electricity/epa/epat7p2.html.
3
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Annual 2007, State Electricity Profiles 2007, United States.
4
Belzer D, M Halverson, and S McDonald. 2009. A Retrospective Analysis of Commercial Building Energy Codes: 1990-2008, Draft. Building Energy Codes
Program, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington.
5
The American National Standards Institute/ASHRAE/Illuminating Engineering Society of North America.
6
450 MW as a typical power plant size was based on the range in size of power plants installed in 2006. Refer to the following to see the complete range:
Buildings Energy Data Book, Table 6.2.7, “Characteristics of New and Stock Generating Capacities, by Plant Type.” http://buildingsdatabook.eere.energy.
gov/TableView.aspx?table=6.2.7.
7
Houser T. 2009. The Economics of Energy Efficiency in Buildings. Policy Brief 09-17, Peterson Institute for International Economics, Washington, D.C.
Accessed January 13, 2009, at http://www.iie.com/publications/pb/pb09-17.pdf.
8
The term “building energy codes” is used within this document as a generic term that includes ASHRAE 90.1 (a standard), the IECC (a code), and other
forms of building energy standards, guidelines, laws, rules, etc. that are adopted as part of the larger body of building codes and required to be satisfied as a
condition for approval to construct and occupy buildings.
9
A separate set of federal building codes and standards apply to buildings constructed or used by any federal agency that is not legally subject to state or
local building codes. They are not the focus of this document. More information can be found at www.energycodes.gov/federal.
10
National organizations that are primarily offering beyond-code programs are listed under “Beyond-Code Programs, Third-Party Verified and Codified.”
11
For more examples of locally-developed programs, refer to: S. Dunn, M. Britt, E. Makela. 2008. Going Beyond Code: A Guide to Creating Energy Efficient
and Sustainable Buildings in the Southwest. Boulder, Colorado: Southwest Energy Efficiency Project.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Building
Energy Codes Program is an information
resource on national model energy codes. We
work with other government agencies, state and
local jurisdictions, national code organizations, and industry
to promote stronger building energy codes and help states
adopt, implement, and enforce those codes.

BECP Website:
www.energycodes.gov

BECP Technical Support:
techsupport@becp.pnl.gov
www.energycodes.gov/support/helpdesk.php

For More Information
Contact the EERE Information Center 1-877-EERE-INF
(1-877-337-3463) or visit eere.energy.gov/informationcenter.

PNNL-SA-70586 • February 2010

Building Energy Codes 101

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