Building codes and utility mandates have propelled California and Massachusetts to national leadership on energy efficiency, according to the American Council For an Energy-Efficient Economy's recent state rankings.
Both states improved their overall scores from last year. Massachusetts scored 19.5 out of 20 in utility policy, while perfect scores for appliance efficiency standards and transportation policy helped California tie the Bay State.
California had a notable increase in electricity savings largely due to policies designed to ramp up energy efficiency programs, the ACEEE report says. Two recent programs, funding of energy efficiency projects in schools, and a recently implemented cap-and-trade program under the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, contributed to the state’s performance.
Massachusetts increased its electricity efficiency targets to almost 3%, and adopted the newest International Energy Conservation Code and ASHRAE standards as part of the state’s newest building energy codes. Massachusetts' Green Communities Act of 2008 continues to drive much of the state's savings, ACEEE said, spurring additional investment in energy efficiency programs by requiring utilities to save a large and growing percentage of energy every year through efficiency measures.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Dec 12, 2017
Total cost of structural fires in U.S. reached $328.5 billion in 2014
Costs associated with losses was $55.4 billion.
Codes and Standards | Dec 11, 2017
Steel-timber composite system proposed for mid- and high-rise buildings
Structural steel columns and beams support a cross-laminated timber floor system.
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2017
Many coastal states performing poorly to protect beaches, coastlines
The most vulnerable regions fare the worst in new study.
Codes and Standards | Dec 6, 2017
2017 wildfires highlight gaps in California’s approach to fire safety in urbanized areas
Better hazard mapping and retrofit programs could help.
Codes and Standards | Dec 5, 2017
Guide for understanding medical monitoring requirement of OSHA silica standard released
Center for Construction Research and Training gives advice on new regulation.
Codes and Standards | Dec 4, 2017
Trump tax proposal would kill historic tax credits
Developers would lose up to 20% discounts on some redevelopment projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2017
Asheville, N.C. rezoning favors pedestrians, could change city’s character
Focus is on layout and look of new buildings rather than use.
Codes and Standards | Nov 29, 2017
Many New York City landlords have not addressed new flood codes
City revised building codes after Superstorm Sandy, but many owners not required to upgrade.
Codes and Standards | Nov 28, 2017
Nail-Laminated timber Canadian design and construction guide released
Includes practical strategies and guidance with lessons from real-life projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
New standard to monitor building sealing performance
Increased understanding of how materials act when stretched and compressed is the goal.
