http://www.energycodes.gov News about energy code implementation and support. Copyright 2010 US DOE Building Energy Codes Program RSS Generator 2.0 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 0:00:00 PDT 60 When it comes to building projects, this one's a monster. The construction zone is essentially the entire country. The builders are a variety of specialists, including architects, plumbers, masons, and lighting, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning experts. The goal: a code to guide all development of green commercial buildings in the United States. http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/homepage/20091126_National_green_building_code_is_in_the_works.html National Policy The Philadelphia Inquirer http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/homepage/20091126_National_green_building_code_is_in_the_works.html Thurs, 26 Nov 2009 0:00:00 PDT President Barack Obama and President Hu Jintao announced a far-reaching package of measures to strengthen cooperation between the United States and China on clean energy. U.S. and Chinese officials will work together and with the private sector to develop energy efficient building codes and rating systems; benchmark industrial energy efficiency; train building inspectors and energy efficiency auditors for industrial facilities; harmonize test procedures and performance metrics for energy efficient consumer products; exchange best practices in energy efficient labeling systems; and, convene a new U.S.-China Energy Efficiency Forum to be held annually, rotating between the two countries. http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8292.htm National Policy U.S. Department of Energy http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8292.htm Tues, 17 Nov 2009 0:00:00 PDT Key members of the House and Senate today are set to announce a lighting standards agreement that would significantly boost efficiency provisions in the Senate climate and energy bill, efficiency advocates and lighting manufacturers said yesterday. http://www.eenews.net/EEDaily/rss/2009/11/03/3 National Policy Environment and Energy Daily http://www.eenews.net/EEDaily/rss/2009/11/03/3 Tues, 3 Nov 2009 0:00:00 PDT In late 2009, a proposal was adopted to amend the Indiana Energy Conservation Code by adopting ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 for commercial and residential buildings. This would be the first substantial commercial code update in two decades. An effective date is expected in early May. http://bcap-energy.org/node/552 States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/552 Tues, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT Updated building energy-efficiency standards were adopted by the California Energy Commission last month. http://www.sdbj.com/industry_article.asp?aID=144686 States San Diego Business Journal http://www.sdbj.com/industry_article.asp?aID=144686 Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT Although West Virginia's code update schedule would normally require code updates only a few years after new code versions are published, the state is presently considering an early update to the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code. http://bcap-energy.org/node/127 States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/127 Sat, 6 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The Office of the Attorney General drafted a memo specifying the requirements of adoption of the residential and commercial energy codes. All cities and counties with building codes will be required to adopt and enforce a relatively up-to-date building energy code (2003 International Energy Conservation Code).  http://bcap-energy.org/node/105 States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/105 Thurs, 4 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The states of Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington were authorized to form the Pacific Northwest Electric Power and Conservation Planning Council. The Act directed the Council to draw up a plan for meeting the electrical needs of the region at the lowest possible cost. The plan called on Bonneville and region's utilities to develop and implement a wide array of conservation programs, and to adopt more energy-efficient building codes. http://usweatherizing.com/blog/?p=1076 States Colorado Green Building Post http://usweatherizing.com/blog/?p=1076 Wed, 3 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT On January 28, companion bills were introduced in the Tennessee House and Senate that would establish ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007 as the minimum energy standard for all new buildings that are not one- and two-family dwellings. The bills, however, also allow jurisdictions to adopt Standard 90.1-2001, its equivalent, or a more stringent code. http://bcap-energy.org/node/549 States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/549 Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT On January 14, a bill was introduced in the Alabama State Legislature that would provide a process for adoption and compliance with codes required under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. On January 26, the House passed the bill unanimously. http://bcap-energy.org/node/550 States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/550 Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT Revisions that would make Boulder County's green-building code far more flexible will be recommended to county commissioners after gaining the unanimous approval of an advisory board on Monday. As approved by the county's Board of Review, the proposed changes would allow many of the people who plan to build a new home or addition in unincorporated Boulder County to meet the code's requirement using a prescriptive approach– which works like a checklist– instead of the existing performance-based approach. http://www.dailycamera.com/news/ci_14313088 States Daily Camera Online http://www.dailycamera.com/news/ci_14313088 Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT On February 1st, the NYC Green Codes Task Force released its much-anticipated report–the most sophisticated and comprehensive analysis of building codes ever conducted by a municipality anywhere. The proposals would affect building codes as well as other codes, such as zoning, health, consumer affairs, and environmental protection—resulting in greener, healthier buildings for all New Yorkers. http://www.urbangreencouncil.org/greencodes/ States Urban Green Council http://www.urbangreencouncil.org/greencodes/ Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT In accordance with the statutory requirements of the Green Communities Act of 2008, the Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) has amended the 7th Edition State Building Code. As of January 1, builders must use the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code with MA amendments. http://bcap-energy.org/node/540 States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/540 Thurs, 7 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PDT Dallas home builders will soon move toward greener building standards and will become one of the first major U.S. cities to pass comprehensive building standards for both residential and commercial construction. In phase one, Dallas homebuilders will build their homes to be 15% more efficient than the base energy code. In phase two, home builders must aim for a 20% water reduction and a minimum 17.5% more efficiency than the base energy code. http://spechomebuilder.com/dallas-home-builders-are-going-green States Home Building and Interior Design http://spechomebuilder.com/dallas-home-builders-are-going-green Sat, 2 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PDT When Utah lawmakers convene next month, one of the items on their 2010 legislative agenda will be reconstructing the state's standards for commercial and residential construction. Among excluded provisions are those addressing the energy code, such as those involving insulation, windows, and appliances, according to the Utah Homebuilders Association. http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705355153/Utah-building-codes-to-be-revised.html States Desert News, Salt Lake City, Utah http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705355153/Utah-building-codes-to-be-revised.html Thurs, 30 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT The Board of Selectmen moved the town of East Longmeadow one step closer to becoming a certified Green Community by unanimously approving a motion to adopt the stretch energy code. This optional building code, adopted by the state in May, was developed in response to the call for improved building energy efficiency in Massachusetts. Towns and cities may adopt the code in place of the energy efficiency requirements of the "base" building code. http://www.masslive.com/springfield/republican/index.ssf?/base/news-25/1261124265130940.xml&coll=1 States The Republican http://www.masslive.com/springfield/republican/index.ssf?/base/news-25/1261124265130940.xml&coll=1 Sat, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT A New York State board has recommended a plan intended to make energy more affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly while helping to create jobs over the next 10 years, officials said. One initiative in the plan, which updates energy goals set in a similar report in 2002, calls for a new state building code that would require stricter energy efficiency standards. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/16/science/earth/16energy.html?_r=1 States The New York Times http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/16/science/earth/16energy.html?_r=1 Wed, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT After it adopted the 2009 IECC and other 2009 I-Codes in May, the New Hampshire State Building Code Review Board finalized the adoption process on December 11 as it reviewed several proposed amendments, rejecting most but approving an exemption for log homes. http://bcap-energy.org/node/532/ States BCAP http://bcap-energy.org/node/532 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT The Tennessee legislature passed a bill earlier this year creating a comprehensive energy policy for the state that, among other provisions, established a statewide residential building code for cities and counties currently without minimum building standards for single- and two-family dwellings. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2009/dec/13/codes-part-new-statewide-energy-policy-jurisdictio/ States Knoxvillebiz.com http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2009/dec/13/codes-part-new-statewide-energy-policy-jurisdictio/ Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT On December 10, the Pennsylvania Independent Regulatory Review Commission approved a regulation adopting the 2009 IECC as the Commonwealth's new energy code for residential and commercial construction. It will be effective January 1, 2010. http://bcap-energy.org/node/531 States Building Codes Assistance Project http://bcap-energy.org/node/531 Thurs, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT A wary construction industry is watching closely as legislators consider automatically updating state building energy codes to match those set by the federal government. http://dailyreporter.com/blog/2009/12/08/builders-wary-of-automatic-code-updates/ States The Daily Reporter, Milwaukee, Wisconsin http://dailyreporter.com/blog/2009/12/08/builders-wary-of-automatic-code-updates/ Tues, 8 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT With overwhelming support on Nov. 20, the WA State Building Code Council voted to move a package of energy conservation code changes forward that will tighten up standards for new home construction beginning July 1, 2010. This was the deciding act of a body of individuals that had heard countless hours of testimony, received dozens of mailings and daily emails in favor and opposition of increased code stringency in the midst of our economic recession. http://www.examiner.com/x-28764-Seattle-Green-Building-Examiner~y2009m11d21-Energy-Codes-and-the-WA-State-Building-Code-Council--Boldly-going-where-legislators-fear-to-tread States Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/x-28764-Seattle-Green-Building-Examiner~y2009m11d21-Energy-Codes-and-the-WA-State-Building-Code-Council--Boldly-going-where-legislators-fear-to-tread Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT On November 9, Rhode Island Gov. Donald Carcieri signed into law a bill that will mandate at least a USGBC LEED "Certified" rating (or equivalent green certification) for public buildings and schools that enter the design phase after January 1, 2010. http://bcap-energy.org/node/526 States Building Codes Assistance Project http://bcap-energy.org/node/526 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT California topped the 2009 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard, recently released by American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). The third annual edition of the report from the nonprofit ranks states in six energy efficiency categories: utility-sector and public benefits programs and policies; transportation polices; building energy codes; combined heat and power; state government initiatives; and appliance efficiency standards. In the new scorecard, Massachusetts and Connecticut land in second and third place, respectively, while the states at the bottom of the list include Mississippi, North Dakota, and Wyoming. http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=15617 States Department of Energy, EERE News. http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=15617 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced today that more than $38 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is being awarded to 4 states to support energy efficiency and conservation activities. Under DOE's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, these states will implement programs that lower energy use, reduce carbon pollution, and create green jobs locally. http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8257.htm States Department of Energy http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8257.htm Tues, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT North Texas may be in the early stages of a green awakening. Dallas' new green building code, which took effect Oct. 1, has been called the nation's toughest. When it's fully implemented in 2011, the code will cut power and water consumption of new construction and major renovations by 15 percent. http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/110109dnprosustainability.42abbb6.html States The Dallas Morning News http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/110109dnprosustainability.42abbb6.html Sun, 1 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT A course from ASHRAE on the requirements of the standard, Understanding Standard 189.1P for High-Performance, Green Buildings, takes place March 15 and is taught by Tom Lawrence, a member of the committee that developed the standard. The course is one of 14 being offered this spring. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17447 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17447 Thurs, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The National Green Building Standard Commentary, a companion publication to the ANSI-approved ICC-700-2008 National Green Building Standard, offers designers and builders using the standard useful insights into the intention and implementation of its practices, and provisions for developing or renovating all types of residences for low environmental impact. http://www.customhomeonline.com/industry-news.asp?referer=rss204&sectionID=204&articleID=1201299 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools CustomHomeOnline http://www.customhomeonline.com/industry-news.asp?referer=rss204&sectionID=204&articleID=1201299 Thurs, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The Energy Code Calculator is a tool developed by BCAP and the Alliance to Save Energy in an effort to show the overall savings energy code implementation will have on a given jurisdiction. This tool will give users the ability to effectively show both commercial and residential savings when implementing the energy code. http://bcap-ocean.org/resource/energy-code-calculator Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Online Code Environment and Advocacy Network (OCEAN) http://bcap-ocean.org/resource/energy-code-calculator Tues, 9 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT From green roofs to glazing products, measures to increase energy stringencies are being proposed for major sections of ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings. Nine proposed addenda to the standard are now open for public review. Eric Richman, chair of the 90.1 lighting subcommittee and lighting expert for the U.S. Department of Energy's Building Energy Codes Program said, "This will encourage designers to use more efficient lighting technology applications that provide more light without using more energy..." and "...incorporate effective daylighting and corresponding electric lighting control into their designs." http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17444 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17444 Thurs, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT A new standard for the design of high-performance green buildings is set to revolutionize the building industry. Published by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), in conjunction with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), Standard 189.1, Standard for the Design of High-Performance, Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, is the first code-intended commercial green building standard in the United States. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17416 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17416 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PDT Changes to assembly descriptions and U-Factors regarding metal building assemblies are being considered in the 2010 version of Standard 90.1, expected to be published in the fall. The changes regarding metal buildings are among many being proposed for the 2010 Standard. Some 43 addenda already have been approved, impacting the Standard in a variety of ways from energy recovery to controls to daylighting. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17408 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17408 Tues, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PDT The first-ever integrated green code for commercial buildings is set for public release in March. The creation of the IGCC brought together diverse sectors of the industry to develop the first integrated, regulatory framework for green commercial buildings, including the American Institute of Architects, American Society for Testing and Materials International, and the U.S. Green Building Council Green Globes Initiative. http://www.residentialarchitect.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=275&articleID=1161209 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Residential Architect Online http://www.residentialarchitect.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=275&articleID=1161209 Wed, 6 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PDT In support of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the Stimulus Act), DOE has prepared a comparison of the text of ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-20007 and the commercial provisions of the 2009 IECC. This comparison is intended to be used by states in determining whether or not their adoption of the 2009 IECC meets the requirements of the Stimulus Act. http://www.energycodes.gov/codedevelop/ Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Building Energy Codes Program http://www.energycodes.gov/codedevelop/ Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT As a result of numerous requests for aid from municipal officials and others in the construction industry, the International Code Council (ICC), an organization that develops codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, took action. In March of 2009, the ICC's Board voted to initiate development of an International Green Construction Code (IGCC) for new and existing commercial buildings. If adopted, the IGCC will provide a model code that can be modified by states and municipalities to fit their regional circumstances. http://www.annarbor.com/business-review/icc-makes-rapid-progress-on-international-green-building-code/ Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Ann Arbor.com http://www.annarbor.com/business-review/icc-makes-rapid-progress-on-international-green-building-code/ Thurs, 3 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT Building Codes Assistant Project, an advocate for improved building codes, has just launched a new online resource called OCEAN, the Online Code Environment and Advocacy Network, designed to facilitate sharing of experiences, best practices, educational resources and key facts relating to building energy code adoption, implementation, compliance and enforcement. http://usweatherizing.com/blog/?p=728 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Colorado Green Building Post http://usweatherizing.com/blog/?p=728 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT On Oct. 21, 2009. The American National Standards Institute approved the 2009 Uniform Solar Energy Code, a consensus-based model code for the installation, inspection, and maintenance of solar energy systems and component products, for accreditation as an American National Standard. While a uniform solar energy code has been in existence since 1976, the 2009 document is the first such code to be designated as a national standard. http://www.customhomeonline.com/industry-news.asp?referer=rss204&sectionID=204&articleID=1117486 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools CUSTOM HOME Magazine http://www.customhomeonline.com/industry-news.asp?referer=rss204&sectionID=204&articleID=1117486 Thurs, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT A proposed high-performance building standard and a stronger version of Standard 90.1, both being released next year, together will provide a total green resource for local and state governments looking to set building code requirements to reduce energy use. Proposed Standard 189.1, Standard for the Design of High Performance, Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, is being developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers in conjunction with the Illuminating Engineering Society and the U.S. Green Building Council. The standard is slated to be the first code-intended commercial green building standard in the United States when published early in 2010. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17356 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17356 Thurs, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT Members of the International Code Council elected Clark County (Nevada) Director of Development Services Ron Lynn as President, Decatur (Alabama) Building Director Jimmy Brothers as Vice President and Chesterfield County (Virginia) Building Official Bill Dupler as Secretary/Treasurer. Adolf Zubia, Las Cruces (New Mexico) Fire Chief, will serve as Immediate Past President. http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/CA6706743.html?nid=2886 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Building Design and Construction http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/CA6706743.html Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT The new ASHRAE Advanced Energy Design Guide for Small Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities is now available for free download. http://www.energycodes.gov/news/aedg-guidelines.stm Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools Building Energy Codes Program http://www.energycodes.gov/news/aedg-guidelines.stm Thurs, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT What was once the turn of a page will now be the click of a mouse. The ASHRAE Handbook is now available online to allow for quick and easy access to a vast amount of HVAC&R information. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17329 Energy Codes Development, Training, and Tools ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17329 Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT They call themselves the Climate Corps – a group of elite master of business administration students who want to make corporate America more energy efficient, one company at a time. So far, the interns have identified $54 million in energy savings for the companies. This translates to 160 million kilowatts a year – enough to power 14,000 homes or cut 100,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions every year. http://www.eenews.net/climatewire/rss/2010/02/17/2 Building Energy Efficiency ClimateWire http://www.eenews.net/climatewire/rss/2010/02/17/2 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The Obama Administration is pledging up to $130 million for a multi-agency initiative that seeks to boost regional economies while making buildings more energy efficient. The plan will create an Energy Regional Innovation Cluster that will partner with local governments and building industry experts to reduce energy use. http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=15804 Building Energy Efficiency U.S. Department of Energy http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=15804 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The EnergyPlus building simulation program is used in the analysis assuming climate conditions similar to that experienced in hot countries of the Arabian Gulf, such as Kuwait. The main objective of the investigation is to meet the limits stipulated in the mandatory Kuwaiti code of practice for energy conservation, with respect to peak AC demand, for both air-cooled and water-cooled AC systems. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6V2V-4YC1K47-3&_user=2741876&_coverDate=02%2F10%2F2010&_alid=1221112616&_rdoc=3&_fmt=high&_orig=search&_cdi=5712&_sort=r&_st=4&_docanchor=&_ct=2450&_acct=C000058656&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=2741876&md5=578f0c48781ca0b7879fa7631cef6545 Building Energy Efficiency ScienceDirect http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6V2V-4YC1K47-3&_user=2741876&_coverDate=02%2F10%2F2010&_alid=1221112616&_rdoc=3&_fmt=high&_orig=search&_cdi=5712&_sort=r&_st=4&_docanchor=&_ct=2450&_acct=C000058656&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=2741876&md5=578f0c48781ca0b7879fa7631cef6545 Tues, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT San Francisco has established the nation's largest green financing program to allow businesses and homeowners to pay for efficiency, water conservation and renewable energy improvements through future property taxes. The Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program will make $150 million in bonding capacity available to the city's property owners beginning March 1. http://www.greenerbuildings.com/news/2010/02/10/san-francisco-launches-nations-largest-pace-program Building Energy Efficiency GreenerBuildings http://www.greenerbuildings.com/news/2010/02/10/san-francisco-launches-nations-largest-pace-program Tues, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT The early stages of building design include a number of decisions which have a strong influence on the performance of the building throughout the rest of the process. It is therefore important that designers are aware of the consequences of these design decisions. This program helps designers to make informed decisions. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6V2V-4YC1K47-2&_user=2741876&_coverDate=02%2F10%2F2010&_alid=1221126224&_rdoc=1&_fmt=high&_orig=search&_cdi=5712&_sort=r&_docanchor=&view=c&_ct=13390&_acct=C000058656&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=2741876&md5=98b3d6b79fa2141de39889e40122381e Building Energy Efficiency ScienceDirect http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6V2V-4YC1K47-2&_user=2741876&_coverDate=02%2F10%2F2010&_alid=1221126224&_rdoc=1&_fmt=high&_orig=search&_cdi=5712&_sort=r&_docanchor=&view=c&_ct=13390&_acct=C000058656&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=2741876&md5=98b3d6b79fa2141de39889e40122381e Tues, 2 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT Scientists from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, along with building efficiency experts in China, are working to analyze the building energy codes and their enforcement systems in the U.S. and China. This work was highlighted in the recent bilateral Energy Efficiency Action Plan announced by President Barack Obama and President Hu Jintao of China, which notes the countries' plans to promote greener buildings through energy efficient building codes, training building inspectors and developing advanced energy rating systems. To date, PNNL scientists have worked with more than 140 implementation and enforcement professionals in China to develop building energy code and efficiency strategies. http://www.pnl.gov/science/highlights/highlight.asp?id=731 Building Energy Efficiency Pacific Northwest National Laboratory http://www.pnl.gov/science/highlights/highlight.asp?id=731 Mon, 8 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT As demand for more stringent codes grows, so, too, does the complexity of the energy codes process and the need for a broader coalition of stakeholders. For anyone new to codes, simply identifying the many actors involved can be a daunting task, much less finding opportunities for involvement. To help make sense of it all, BCAP is proud to introduce the Energy Codes Universe! http://en.openei.org/wiki/Main_Page Building Energy Efficiency BCAP http://en.openei.org/wiki/Main_Page Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 PDT Ever since the energy crisis of the 1970s faded out of memory, energy codes adopted by states and other jurisdictions across the country have been making small, incremental steps toward demanding more efficiency out of buildings. But a consensus is forming that there needs to be more strict standards for building energy efficiency. http://earth2tech.com/2009/12/23/4-green-building-trends-to-watch-in-2010/ Building Energy Efficiency Earth2Tech.com http://earth2tech.com/2009/12/23/4-green-building-trends-to-watch-in-2010/ Mon, 4 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PDT A consensus is forming that there needs to be more strict standards for building energy efficiency, says Jim Edelson, who runs the codes program for the New Building Institute, a nonprofit that promotes improved building energy performance. The new versions of the "model codes" currently under development will likely require a 30 percent increase in energy efficiency. http://earth2tech.com/2009/12/23/4-green-building-trends-to-watch-in-2010/ Building Energy Efficiency Earth2Tech.com http://earth2tech.com/2009/12/23/4-green-building-trends-to-watch-in-2010/ Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT The nation's top three building energy codes and standards—California's Title 24, the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and ASHRAE 90.1—all reflect the importance of using lighting controls to conserve energy. Upcoming versions of these codes and standards go so far as to call out specific lighting control components. These codes and standards are used by nearly every state as the basis for their local building energy code. They provide the minimum acceptable energy performance requirements for commercial buildings. http://www.csemag.com/article/440563-The_synergy_of_lighting_codes_and_controls.php?rssid=20194 Building Energy Efficiency Consulting-Specifying Engineer http://www.csemag.com/article/440563-The_synergy_of_lighting_codes_and_controls.php?rssid=20194 Wed, 1 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT Secretary Chu announced today that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is launching Open Energy Information (www.openEI.org), a new open-source web platform that will make DOE resources and open energy data, including building technologies information, widely available to the public. The data and tools are housed on a free, editable and evolving wiki-platform. http://en.openei.org/wiki/Main_Page Building Energy Efficiency The U.S. Department of Energy Open Energy Information http://en.openei.org/wiki/Main_Page Wed, 9 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT President Barack Obama proposed a new rebate program on December 8 to reward homeowners for making their homes more energy efficient, while also proposing additional federal investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy. http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/president-obama-announces-proposals-accelerate-job-growth-and-lay-foundation-robust Building Energy Efficiency The White House http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/president-obama-announces-proposals-accelerate-job-growth-and-lay-foundation-robust Wed, 9 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT A new study from the National Research Council has found that energy efficiency measures—including fuel-economy standards, stricter building codes and efficiency requirements for home appliances—could cut energy use in the United States by 30 percent below 2030 projections. http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/12/09/study-cites-substantial-efficiency-savings/ Building Energy Efficiency The New York Times http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/12/09/study-cites-substantial-efficiency-savings/ Wed, 9 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT A new program to inform building owners and operators, tenants and prospective buyers on the energy use of buildings, similar to a nutrition label on food or miles per gallon ratings on cars, was launched today to encourage the building industry to find ways to cut energy use and costs. The Building Energy Quotient program, which will be known as Building EQ, will include both As Designed (asset) and In Operation (as operated) ratings for all building types, except residential. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17380 Building Energy Efficiency ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17380 Tues, 8 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT The United States, long considered a laggard in addressing global warming, is poised to achieve significant reductions in global warming pollution thanks to clean energy and climate policies driven by the states, according to a first-of-its-kind analysis by Environment America.  Since President Obama's inauguration in January, the federal government has implemented several policies initiated by the states nationwide – including limits on vehicle global warming pollution adopted by California and 13 other states, strong energy efficiency standards for appliances and lighting, and strong building energy codes. http://bcap-energy.org/node/528 Building Energy Efficiency Building Codes Assistance Project http://bcap-energy.org/node/528 Thurs, 3 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Google unveiled a map of California's climate-changed future on Wednesday, part of the most populous U.S. state's first steps in planning to adapt to "inevitable" global warming. California leads the United States in its legal mandate to cut greenhouse gases that warm the planet, from auto mileage standards adopted by the rest of the nation to green building codes. http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5B202R20091203 Building Energy Efficiency Reuters http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE5B202R20091203 Wed, 2 Dec 2009 00:00:00 PDT The National Association of State Energy Officials will convene the Zero-Energy Commercial Buildings Consortium in order to support the U.S. Department of Energy's Net-Zero Energy Commercial Building Initiative. http://www.solutionsforalternativeenergy.com/2009/11/zero-energy-commercial-buildin.html Building Energy Efficiency Solutions for Alternative Energy http://www.solutionsforalternativeenergy.com/2009/11/zero-energy-commercial-buildin.html Tues, 24 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT Homes and office buildings consume three-quarters of U.S. electricity, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory wants to lower that figure by erecting what it believes will be the largest "net-zero" energy building in the world—one that produces as much power onsite as it uses. The Department of Energy, which runs the Golden-based lab nestled in the foothills west of Denver, and its contractors hope the $64 million structure will provide a national blueprint for making buildings greener and cutting energy use. http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/nation/energy-dept-leads-by-example-erects-colo-building-that-uses-as-much-energy-as-it-creates-70286672.html Building Energy Efficiency The Washington Examiner http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/nation/energy-dept-leads-by-example-erects-colo-building-that-uses-as-much-energy-as-it-creates-70286672.html Tues, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT In the wake of an extended global economic slump, local communities are pushing ahead and expanding their green building programs. More than one in five U.S. cities with populations greater than 50,000 surveyed by the American Institute of Architects report having a policy to promote green buildings, accounting for more than 53 million people. The new report, Green Building Policy in a Changing Economic Environment, is an inventory of policies and best practices intended to help policymakers advance a more sustainable legislative agenda for growth and development. http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/CA6706736.html?nid=2886 Building Energy Efficiency Building Design and Construction http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/CA6706736.html Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT Building owners and managers of existing buildings need to understand the economic benefits of improving systems and operations. A new publication from leading industry organizations provides guidance for the business case to achieve energy savings as much as 30 percent. Energy Efficiency Guide for Existing Commercial Buildings: The Business Case for Building Owners and Managers provides the rationale for making economic decisions related to improving and sustaining energy efficiency in existing buildings. http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17357 Building Energy Efficiency ASHRAE http://www.ashrae.org/pressroom/detail/17357 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT Recent changes implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy promise to jump start and enhance Energy Star, helping it to maintain its viability and leadership role. http://www.customhomeonline.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=204&articleid=1111562 Building Energy Efficiency Custom Home Magazine http://www.customhomeonline.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=204&articleid=1111562 Thurs, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 PDT