NBI Energy Code Proposal Moves Forward

Changes to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) proposed by the New Buildings Institute (NBI), The American Institute of Architects, and the U.S. Department of Energy have cleared the first hurdle on their way to adoption.

The proposals, modeled on NBI’s Core Performance prescriptive building guidelines, would result in 20%–25% energy savings over current codes. The changes would affect insulation levels, HVAC equipment efficiency, lighting levels and control systems, and other energy-efficiency measures, and would require commissioning and offer alternative compliance through the use of renewable energy.

Already approved by committee, the proposals will move on to the next step in the adoption process, the IECC final action hearings of 2010. If passed, they will become part of the 2012 version of IECC. More information is available at www.newbuildings.org/iecc.htm.