Building Performance Standards and Financial Incentives

The Department of Energy’s Building Energy Codes Program has announced the return of their 2023-2024 Energy Code Webinar Series.

The series consists of monthly webinars scheduled for every third Thursday of the month at 1:00 pm Eastern time. Topics covered range from Building Performance Standards (BPS), best practices, tips and tools, and information about financial incentives that can help support BPS implementation.

Building performance standards and building energy codes continue to evolve, making energy-efficient, safe homes available for everyone. We are committed to sharing this information with construction professionals everywhere!

Here’s the link to learn more Building Performance Standards and Implementation.

Decoding Changing Building Permit Requirements

Understanding the recent shifts in building permit requirements is crucial for contractors aiming to stay ahead in the ever-evolving construction landscape. In July of this year, the Department of Energy made a significant announcement, allocating $90 million to support the implementation of updated energy codes for buildings. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance energy efficiency standards in new construction, renovations, and substantial additions, with the overarching goals of reducing greenhouse emissions and cutting energy costs for American families.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Impact:

The catalyst for these changes lies in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which presents a historic opportunity to advance the efficiency and resilience of building energy codes nationwide. A substantial $225 million in funding has been earmarked for eligible entities over five years, fostering the cost-effective implementation of updated building energy codes. Priority is given to projects involving strategic partnerships, including local building code agencies, codes and standards developers, builder associations, and design and construction professionals. The funding criteria emphasize long-term sustainability, addressing equity and environmental justice, and enhancing resilience priorities.

Understanding the IECC and Compliance:

The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets the minimum requirements for energy-efficient buildings. Compliance with these standards involves either a Prescriptive approach, dictating specific requirements, or a Performance approach, offering more design flexibility while ensuring each aspect meets or exceeds the minimum requirement. Compliance is determined by a passing or failing score. IECC Purpose

Impact on Building Permits:

In many state and city jurisdictions, including New Orleans, a RESCheck, along with Manual J and Manual S reports, is now a prerequisite for obtaining building permits. RESCheck, a Department of Energy software tool, calculates a home's energy efficiency by assessing factors like U-factor, area of walls, windows, and doors, determining overall heat loss.

Why Outsource the Reports?

While it's possible to complete the reports independently, the learning curve and time investment may not align with a contractor's priorities. Outsourcing to professionals who understand reporting requirements, utilize the latest technology, and have industry experience can streamline the process. Our commitment is to provide timely, accurate reports, easing the burden on builders and craftsmen.

The Product Enhancement Perspective:

Committing to energy-efficient design not only aligns with changing regulations but also enhances the quality of your product. Reduced energy costs and lower utility bills for homeowners contribute to a positive and responsible building legacy.

Navigating the changing landscape of building permit requirements doesn't have to be a challenge. Outsourcing the intricate reporting process to professionals ensures accuracy, efficiency, and peace of mind. Let us demonstrate how seamlessly we can handle this process for you—put us to work today!