Philadelphia adopts 2018 IECC energy code, while state opts for 2015 code

While the state of Pennsylvania will adopt the 2015 IECC energy efficiency building code on Oct. 1, its largest city, Philadelphia, has opted to adopt the newer 2018 IECC standard.

Philadelphia is one of the first jurisdictions to move to the latest code. The new state code represents at least a 28% efficiency improvement.

The new codes include several provisions impacting lighting, according to a press release from Legrand. New requirements include:

— Automatic daylight-responsive controls required for windows and skylights

— A new automatic lighting shut off provision requires the use of occupancy sensors in 12 building space types

— Exterior lighting control provisions now require building façade and landscape lighting to be controlled independently of all other site and parking lighting

— Lighting System Functional Testing is required to determine how occupancy sensors, time switches, and daylight-responsive controls are to be configured, programmed, and calibrated