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
Lighting | Apr 5, 2016
Lighting requirements for high-rise dwellings proposed for energy standard
The requirements would effectively eliminate incandescent and halogen bulbs.
Steel Buildings | Apr 4, 2016
AISI publishes Cold-Formed Steel Framing Design Guide, 2016 Edition
Updates 2007 edition; includes five comprehensive design examples.
Data Centers | Apr 1, 2016
ASHRAE releases publication on the impact of IT equipment on data center design
The book offers advice for designing structures in the fast-changing data center industry.
Codes and Standards | Mar 28, 2016
Occupant egress simulations that impact codes fall short, researchers say
Building evacuations in emergencies are too dangerous as a result.
School Construction | Mar 28, 2016
National report on school buildings reports $46 billion annual funding shortfall
Millions of students said to be learning in obsolete facilities.
Codes and Standards | Mar 25, 2016
ASHRAE grants fund human thermal comfort database project
Aim is to help better understand thermal comfort in residential and commercial buildings.
Codes and Standards | Mar 25, 2016
OSHA finalizes new silica dust regulations
Construction industry has until June 2017 to comply.
Wood | Mar 23, 2016
APA updates Engineered Wood Construction Guide
Provides recommendations on engineered wood construction systems.
Codes and Standards | Mar 23, 2016
Affordable housing advocates differ on micro-apartment policy
New York’s luxury micro units could be first step to developing affordable units.
Codes and Standards | Mar 21, 2016
GRESB launches Health and Well-being Module for real estate industry
Optional supplement to environmental, social, and governance assessment.
