The 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) was all but finalized recently as members voted to go forward to finalize proposed changes to the energy code standards. The draft standards will be published shortly, followed by an opportunity for feedback and revisions before the final standards will be released, probably in late 2020. These standards are often used as a model for new laws and standards for new building design in many municipalities, states, and nations, saving energy usage and costs and cutting air toxic and greenhouse gas emissions from new buildings.
Buildings (residential and commercial) are responsible for about 40% of US energy usage and GHG emissions. Based on the probable final 2021 IECC standards, new buildings will reduce covered energy usage by over 10% on average compared to buildings meeting the 2018 IECC, and by more than 1/3 compared to the 2009 code.
IECC members voted late last year overwhelmingly in support of a number of proposals to strengthen energy efficiency requirements, such as requiring high-efficiency water heating; electric upgrades to allow easier future conversions to electrified equipment; increased installation of electric vehicle charging stations; and an optional pathway for municipalities to encourage construction of Net Zero or ultra-energy efficient buildings that meet their remaining energy needs with renewable energy.
One additional probable change compared to the 2018 IECC is that this edition will likely give building owners flexibility to meet standards in different, science-based, but non-prescriptive ways.
Some critics have complained that the IECC changes too often, every 3 years, and that adversely affects planning. On the other hand, technologies improve so quickly. Also, of course, when a building is built new, it will stay in existence and function (and use excess energy and emit greenhouse and air toxic gases) for decades. One does not want to “miss the boat” of having buildings incorporate proven, improved design or technology to lock in GHG emission reductions.
Speaking of energy codes, ASHRAE’s code, 90.1, was last revised in 2019. ASHRAE is already researching changes to their code that will be published in 2022.
CCES has the experts to help provide technical assistance to help you meet IECC, ASHRAE and other energy standards to minimize your usage and GHG emissions of existing or new buildings. We can help you economically reduce energy usage that not only save significant costs but enhance worker productivity and reduce O&M costs and effort. Contact us today at karell@CCESworld.com or at 914-584-6720.