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 | May 24, 2016
Ontario planning to spend $7 billion on wide-ranging climate change plan
Includes financial incentives to retrofit buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2016
Facility managers say Internet of Things, analytics will impact maintenance soon
More reliable data needed for optimal results from the technology.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2016
Industry leaders call for wider use of bamboo as a building material
Benefits include seismic resiliency and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2016
Asphalt roofing group publishes updated shingle installation guide
Technical manual provides best practices for roofing professionals.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2016
EPA proposes new stormwater discharge regulations for construction sites
Would apply to sites of one or more acres.
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.
Codes and Standards | May 11, 2016
Current California seismic codes provide safety, resiliency, but needed upgrades present challenge
Los Angeles requires seismic retrofits, but other cities do not.
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2016
Apple spars with Cupertino, Calif., mayor over strained city infrastructure
Apple’s new ‘spaceship’ campus project prompts questions about whether the company should pay more to offset traffic woes.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
Safety Stand-Down yields proposals to boost construction safety
One example: Gilbane encourages safety harnesses for all working above 6 feet.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
EcoDistricts unveils sustainable neighborhood framework
Focus is on equity, resilience, and climate protection.