The 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) includes changes that address more climate zones.
One of these new zones is targeted to tropical areas including Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, U.S. Virgin Islands, and islands between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Advocates recently testified in favor of adopting the new code at a public hearing on Hawaii’s State Energy Conservation Code.
A recent report funded by the Department of Energy found that adoption of the 2015 IECC would lead to about 21% energy cost savings for residential buildings, including single-family houses, townhouses, and apartment buildings of three stories or less. Tropic-specific additions to the 2015 code include requirements for insulation, ventilation, ceiling fans, and air sealing.
There is also an optional compliance path for semi-conditioned residential buildings that match criteria defined in the new code.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 23, 2017
New manual of IT connectivity guidelines for commercial developments, redevelopments released
Mobile capacity planning, conduit points of entry, and electrical resiliency are covered.
Codes and Standards | Mar 22, 2017
Brick Industry Assn. study finds brick buildings cost less than precast, metal, and glass
The study compares costs in five categories of construction.
Codes and Standards | Mar 21, 2017
Calif. shopping center is first to earn BREEAM USA In-Use certification
The certification measures and monitors environmental performance of existing buildings.
Codes and Standards | Mar 20, 2017
Professional liability insurance rates for architects and engineers expected to be stable in 2017
Premiums leveled off in 2015, and claims have been stable, helping to hold costs down.
Codes and Standards | Mar 15, 2017
Energy Star program at risk
The standard-setting initiative for energy-efficient products may be a victim of Trump budget cuts.
Codes and Standards | Mar 14, 2017
Timber Innovation Act to promote tall wood buildings introduced in Congress
The measure has bipartisan support.
Codes and Standards | Mar 13, 2017
U.S. House and Senate have voted to repeal Dept. of Labor’s 'blacklisting' rule
The rule mandates labor compliance review for federal construction contractors.
Codes and Standards | Mar 9, 2017
WiredScore forms Connectivity Advisory Committee
The committee's creation is an important step forward for the group that evaluates internet connectivity in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2017
New guide examines multifamily high-performance ventilation
The focus is on cost and performance of various systems.
Codes and Standards | Mar 7, 2017
Canada’s national building codes will encompass effects of climate change
Forecasted data, not historical data, will be used as the basis for the codes.