San Jose recently passed a new building energy code with the goal of making zero-emission electric buildings the norm.
The new code in nation’s tenth largest city is the strongest among large cities and can serve as a roadmap for local leaders across the nation. As a result of the code, greenhouse gas emissions of new San Jose buildings will be cut by 90%.
The code calls for equipment such as heaters and water heaters to be powered by clean, renewable electricity. For high-rise and commercial buildings, the new code encourages electric construction, while leaving flexibility to build with gas; however, buildings heated by gas must meet higher energy efficiency requirements.
They will also need to provide the electric infrastructure to easily switch to electric appliances later. The code also promotes photovoltaic technology in homes and other buildings by requiring all buildings to be solar-ready.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 26, 2020
Is CLT really a green solution?
Sustainability depends upon forest stewardship, product manufacturing process.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2020
St. Louis is first Midwest city to pass building energy performance standard
Allows owners broad flexibility on how to achieve goals.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2020
Supreme Court says Georgia cannot copyright its entire official code
Ruling may have implications for other states claiming copyright for building codes.
Codes and Standards | May 18, 2020
Strategies to reduce personal contact in multifamily properties
Design can improve health amid COVID-19 pandemic.
Codes and Standards | May 18, 2020
Canada Green Building Council says building industry lacks zero-carbon skills, knowledge
Net-zero target requires shift in thinking and practices.
Codes and Standards | May 18, 2020
California’s grid can support all-electric buildings
Load-shifting will help reduce peak demand.
Codes and Standards | May 15, 2020
European cities to revamp transportation after pandemic reopening
Road closures, new rules for public transit will be imposed.
Codes and Standards | May 14, 2020
Washington State construction industry restart plan has three phases
In state with earliest COVID-19 cases, advisory group developing priorities based on risk.
Codes and Standards | May 14, 2020
More mass timber beam and column options available in the U.S.
Freres Lumber unveils new line of structural elements suitable for high-rise buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 13, 2020
Researchers flag insufficient training for construction workers on healthcare projects
May contribute to fungal disease outbreaks that endanger patients