New Buildings Institute

The 2021 Energy Code - Significant Energy Efficiency Gains

As one of a subset of building codes, energy codes set minimum energy efficiency requirements for buildings. Model energy codes provide a ready way for state, local, and some national governments to adopt in whole or part energy energy efficiency requirements in part or whole, instead of developing their own requirements from scratch. Every time there is a new energy code, it is then available for adoption.  Building and related codes ar...

Challenges to the 2021 Energy Code - Opportunity to Speak up for Energy Efficiency (Act Fast - Comments Due by 8/17!)

We at Rate It Green were already celebrating the Changes voted in for the 2021 Energy Code, voted on by over 1,000 representatives from US cities and states, but not so fast.   Apparently three main appeals have been filed, and the National Buildings Institute (NBI) has shared excellent information: https://newbuildings.org/2021-energy-code-progress-challenged-climate-and-affordability-stand-to-lose-unless-we-speak-up...

IECC Voting Registration Deadline is Approaching - Municipalities Must Register by March 29 (This is Low Hanging Energy Efficiency Fruit!)

According to the New Buildings Institute, "Improving the efficiency stringency in the energy code is the single most impactful action we can take to improve the buildings where people live and work.”  We can do this if we and our elected officials work together, and there is an immediate action our towns and cities need to take.   The March 29 deadline is rapidly approaching for local officials to register their...

New Buildings Institute Releases Model Stretch Building Code

New Buildings Institute (NBI) recently developed a new model stretch code that targets 20% better efficiency than the ASHRAE 90.1-2013 national model energy code. The new 20% Stretch Code offers jurisdictions a set of energy-saving building strategies that cover design aspects such as envelope, mechanical, water heating, lighting and plug loads. With increasing pressure to deliver on energy and climate action goals,  ...