DOE and ICC Dispute; Potential New Residential Energy Code
Over the last month, there has been a public dispute between the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the International Code Council (ICC) over the development of building energy codes, particularly residential energy codes. DOE released a press release asserting that the residential 2024 IECC is not cost effective with excessive incremental first costs and lengthy paybacks. ICC responded with a press release pointing out how this new analysis contradicts DOE’s own prior analysis showing the residential 2024 IECC does save consumers money and is cost effective.
The DOE senior policy advisor over this area, Michael Sangaline, also addressed the ASHRAE 90.1 committee and board of directors at ASHRAE’s recent annual conference, where he stressed that DOE’s goal is “transparency, affordability, and consumer choice.” NGA and GICC actively participate and have leadership positions in both the IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 processes, and NGA’s consultant Tom Culp also met with Mr. Sangaline separately. The primary focus of this dispute is currently on the IECC residential energy code, and DOE indicated they are currently satisfied with the ASHRAE process and commercial energy code references to ASHRAE 90.1.
In response, ASHRAE has indicated they will develop a new energy standard for low-rise residential buildings in competition with the IECC. The draft title, purpose, and scope (TPS) has been posted here for download (docx) and is available for public comment through August 9. This is a developing situation which NGA’s Advocacy Team is closely monitoring, as it could have significant impact on future energy code development and adoption around the country.
DOE Request for Information on Cost-Effectiveness of Building Energy Codes
In a related matter, DOE has also issued a Request for Information (RFI) soliciting input on the methodology for assessing affordability and cost effectiveness of building energy codes. They are asking for comments on gathering first cost information for consumers, accounting for regional variations, and methodology and assumptions on assessing cost effectiveness. It is believed their primary focus is on residential energy codes, but the information could be used for both residential and commercial energy codes. The RFI can be found here, and comments are due Aug 3.