What role do codes and standards have in reducing energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions?

Energy codes have traditionally been a tool to reduce the energy consumption of new buildings and major renovations or alterations in older ones. The actual energy performance (kilowatt-hours of electricity, or therms of natural gas, for example) of existing buildings is not typically governed by an energy code and is often not considered from a code perspective unless the owner undertakes a renovation or a stand-alone energy efficiency upgrade (e.g., HVAC, lighting, etc.). Addressing the energy use of the existing building stock can help ensure inclusion of modern building practices and technologies that reduce energy waste and GHG emissions. 

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In January 2023, the International Code Council published a 17-page Guide to Energy Codes and Building Performance Standards (BPS). Well-designed and correctly-implemented building performance policies and programs can help cities and states meet their GHG emissions reduction, resilience, and energy efficiency goals. This resource document provides background on BPS and how they are being implemented, plus opportunities for model energy codes and building code departments to support their implementation more effectively.

Download the free guide today!