State and local policies nationwide that strive to eliminate fossil fuels in newly constructed buildings will spur widespread adoption of heat pumps for water heating.
Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) have been sold in the U.S. for over 40 years, but have struggled to penetrate the market. This has left the construction industry with few case studies, best practices, and expert practitioners.
But as technology continues to improve, gas rates increase, and renewable grid penetration boosts the sustainability of electrification, HPWHs appear poised to take a significant uptick in market growth. Over 30 municipalities in California and Massachusetts have already passed policies prohibiting or strongly disincentivizing gas water heaters in new buildings.
Municipalities without the authority or funding to pursue these measures could adjust building permit processes to incentivize HPWH design options. These methods could include expedited processes, and height or density bonuses for eligible buildings.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2015
New document addresses school safety and security
In an effort to balance security and fire safety features within codes, standards and planning, NFPA hosted a two-day workshop, “School Safety, Codes and Security”, last December. The findings are now available in an NFPA report.
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2015
Two myths regarding NFPA 101 Life Safety Code debunked
NFPA life safety engineer Ron Coté settles the debate over second egress doors and exit signs.
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2015
How to prevent corrosion in sprinkler system piping
The technical committees responsible for NFPA 13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems, have been looking at ways to eliminate or reduce corrosion in sprinkler systems for several revision cycles.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2015
Steel Framing Alliance updates ‘Thermal Design and Code Compliance for Cold-Formed Steel Walls’ design guide
Includes results of new tests and addresses IECC and ASHRAE compliance paths.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2015
Helena, Mont., may charge commercial developers a fee to fund public art
The fee would apply to new construction or alteration of nonresidential buildings of at least 20,000 sf.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2015
DBIA releases new document on choosing a project delivery method
Provides owners and others with factors to consider when choosing the best method of delivery for their project.
High-rise Construction | Jun 5, 2015
Japanese policymakers discuss mandate for toilets in elevators
This quirky-sounding building code is a safety measure for the earthquake-prone nation.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2015
OSHA publishes guide to restroom access for transgender workers
The guide advises employers to allow employees to use restrooms that correspond to their gender identity.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2015
Guide helps Building Teams maximize team integration
The guide includes forms to support a two- to four-hour workshop to help an owner select the most appropriate delivery strategy.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2015
NIBS, RICS to explore P3 as tool to achieve high-performance buildings
The idea of applying the P3 concept more to buildings, and especially building performance, is a potentially promising new avenue in the U.S., according to the trade groups.
