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 | Apr 9, 2020
Owners retrofitting properties, monitoring performance during epidemic
Covid-19 outbreak may lead employers to reevaluate office commitments.
Codes and Standards | Apr 7, 2020
Dept. of Labor publishes guidance on paid sick leave, expanded family and medical leave
Includes fact sheets for employees, employers, and a questions and answers document.
Codes and Standards | Apr 1, 2020
Standards and codes meetings halted, postponed
ASTM International cancels in-person standards meetings; DOE’s National Energy Codes Conference postponed.
Codes and Standards | Mar 26, 2020
Ransomware attack on Canadian contractor underscores need for cybersecurity
Victimized company Bird Construction has defense, law enforcement contracts.
Codes and Standards | Mar 23, 2020
Contractors should scrutinize contracts carefully amid Covid-19 crisis
Compliance with time-sensitive notice requirements and careful documentation required.
Codes and Standards | Mar 23, 2020
Florida legislature passes bill to reduce retainage on state and local projects
House and Senate vote is nearly unanimous; law would go into effect Oct. 1.
Codes and Standards | Mar 20, 2020
Feds prod use of eminent domain to force people out of flood-prone homes
Local officials that don’t comply could lose federal money to combat climate change.
Codes and Standards | Mar 19, 2020
ASHRAE provides COVID-19 resources for operating, maintaining HVAC systems
Includes recently approved position document on Airborne Infectious Diseases.
Codes and Standards | Mar 19, 2020
CaGBC launches new version of its Zero Carbon Building Standard
Version 2 draws on lessons from more than 20 zero carbon projects.
Codes and Standards | Mar 16, 2020
Concrete industry reduces carbon footprint by 13% over five years
Result mostly due to more efficient use of Portland cement.