Utah became the latest state to update its commercial building energy efficiency code from the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) to the 2018 IECC in July.
The new code permits the use of the ASHRAE/IES 90.1-2016 standard, giving building owners and design teams an alternative compliance path. Any plans submitted for permitting on or after July 1 are required to follow 2018 IECC new energy code requirements.
The new code provides for improved building envelope performance and reduced air infiltration. Another change is a requirement for occupancy sensor controls for lighting shut off within open plan offices.
The occupancy sensor control shut off time delay was reduced to 20 minutes from 30 minutes. Open plan offices must limit the size of the occupancy sensor-controlled area to separate 600 square-foot zones. When occupancy is not detected in these zones, general lighting must automatically shut off or be reduced by at least 80%.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 18, 2015
Codes should be updated to reflect lessons learned from recent extreme weather events
More can be done to boost resiliency to flooding, extended power outages.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2015
Los Angeles launches ‘Drop 100′ campaign to reduce water use in commercial buildings
Goal is to save 100 million gallons annually.
Codes and Standards | Dec 1, 2015
More than 50 design, construction, and real estate firms urge action on climate change
Call for policymakers to move on one of the ‘greatest economic opportunities of the 21st Century’
Codes and Standards | Oct 26, 2015
Chicago suburb considers bird collision deterrent requirement on all new buildings
The rule would mandate that new commercial, multifamily structures comply with LEED pilot program.
Codes and Standards | Oct 16, 2015
Anchorage may raise building height restrictions that would block precious winter sunlight
Controversial measure is part of plan to spur development.
Codes and Standards | Oct 16, 2015
Appellate court enacts nationwide stay on controversial expansion of Clean Water Act
New EPA rule suspended until court cases settled.
Codes and Standards | Oct 9, 2015
New California law means commercial building benchmarking program will be implemented
Multifamily housing to be included, a first for a U.S. state.
Codes and Standards | Oct 2, 2015
New ASHRAE guideline for commissioning existing systems and assemblies
Focuses on optimum facility and system operation.
Codes and Standards | Sep 18, 2015
New RELi standard addresses disaster resilience
Based on LEED model, may help lower insurance rates
Building Materials | Aug 28, 2015
Structural steel buildings specification available for second public review
Next year's specification open for comments until Sept. 21
