Building Codes: A Powerful Yet Underused Climate Policy That Could Save Billions
Building codes mostly involve life safety issues but can be a powerful tool for implementing energy efficient design and construction. Most of the codes introduced for building revolve around the electrification to enable zero-emission technologies like efficient electric heat pumps and electric vehicle (EVs) charging stations. States like Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, and Washington are leading this charge but several other states have also enacted zero emission policies to include Massachusetts, Maryland, and New York. Understanding and keeping up with the ever changing landscape of building codes is critical to both design and implementation.
"State and local governments have the power to maximize this potential by determining which codes are adopted and enforced, thus deciding if new buildings will support an electrified and decarbonized future. California’s next statewide code update is grappling with multiple electrification issues, and the International Code Council (ICC) – the global codes and standards agency – recently redacted energy measures in its proposed model code, which will ultimately be adopted by thousands of jurisdictions." Learn more here.
If you need help dealing with the complexities of building codes and permitting, Phase 1 can help.
