State Energy Code Compliance Measurement Activities
Wisconsin Pilot Study
as of September 2011
We welcome updates to the information on this page.
Update
September 2011: Wisconsin evaluated 44 new commercial buildings, using state inspectors to conduct the evaluations, resulting in a state compliance rate of 95% for new commercial buildings. The state has formally adopted the 2009 IECC and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 and began enforcing them on September 1, 2011. Results of the pilot studies will be posted at www.energycodes.gov/arra/pilot_studies.stm.
Background
Through the Wisconsin Department of Commerce (COMM), Wisconsin adopted the 2006 IECC, with state amendments. All areas of the IECC, including low-rise residential and commercial exterior envelope, mechanical, and lighting are enforced. The codes adopted by COMM are a mandatory minimum and are enforced throughout the state. Through COMM's Building and Safety Network, state and local governments established relationships to achieve the stated goals/reporting and work schedule to complete the pilot study. The state has currently adopted the 2009 IECC and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 codes.
Scope of Work
The state of Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence (OEI) partnered with COMM to implement a building code compliance study for the 2009 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2007 codes. Wisconsin evaluated new commercial construction, including 28 small buildings (up to 25,000 square feet), 10 medium buildings (larger than 25,000 square feet), 4 large buildings (larger than 60,000 square feet), and 2 extra-large buildings (larger than 250,000 square feet). Wisconsin used established training platforms to promote BECP-developed procedures and tools and worked with BECP to help accelerate training for field inspectors on new codes to reduce energy use and increase building safety.
Goals/Objectives
- Use established training platforms to promote the procedures and tools provided by BECP.
- Evaluate 44 small, medium, and large commercial buildings, assuming inspection points during the 10- month period will be manageable.
- Conduct a study as part of the auditing process for sampling buildings in communities where municipal plan review and/or inspections are delegated.
- Complete periodic reports and teleconferences on process and implementation issues.