Program Highlights - April 2006

Welcome to the U.S. Department of Energy Building Energy Codes Program's (BECP's) monthly newsletter. This newsletter is designed to provide you with the latest news and information on our ongoing work to increase the energy efficiency of the nation's commercial and residential buildings.

DOE announces location for 2006 National Workshop
The 2006 National Workshop on State Building Energy Codes will take place July 31 through August 3 at the Four Points Sheraton Denver Southeast in Denver, Colorado. The workshop provides an opportunity to learn and share information about a wide variety of energy codes and standards-related topics. The U.S. Department of Energy sponsors the event. Watch the website for upcoming details.

Learning units available through free building energy codes webcasts
By completing the Building Energy Codes Program web-based classes, participants can earn continuing education units toward renewing an International Code Council certification. In addition, registered American Institute of Architects members can receive learning units by taking an online test.

Web-based training titled Residential Requirements of the 2006 IECC draws over 900 attendees
On April 20, 915 builders, architects, code officials, and other experts participated in BECP's 60-minute live webcast, which highlighted the differences in residential requirements between the 2003 and the 2006 IECC. The event was followed by a live 30-minute Q&A session. The course was sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy. For more information on this class, see the 2006 IECC Residential Training page.

Free classes, relevant resources make Building Energy Codes Program website popular
The number of website hits totaled 3,442,509 in April, and are at 21,644,127 for fiscal year 2006.

New classes, codes prompt increased requests for code-related support
In April, BECP responded to approximately 475 e-mail requests for assistance with energy codes and support on BECP's code compliance software. These requests from designers, architects, builders, code officials, and engineers, along with others, show increased interest in energy efficiency, especially in Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania.

May 28 to June 1: LightFair International (stop by the BECP booth)

June 15: Commercial envelope requirements in 2006 International Energy Conservation Code

June 22: Mechanical requirements in 2006 International Energy Conservation Code

July 13: Lighting requirements in 2006 International Energy Conservation Code

July 31 to August 3: 2006 National Workshop on State Building Energy Codes

August: Conditioned Attics and Crawlspaces Code Compliance using REScheck

Watch this highlights report for announcements on registering for classes.