Building Codes Assistance Project

Energy Codes are a subset of a broader group of codes known as building codes. Building codes are written legal requirements governing the design and construction of buildings. Most of the codes adopted by state and local governments set minimum standards for safe occupancy and to protect individuals from substandard living and working conditions. All building codes generally reflect a consensus of current design and construction practice. They are intended to lock in safe current practice as a minimum standard for design and construction of residential and commercial structures.

Energy codes cover areas of construction such as wall and ceiling insulation, window and door specifications, Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) equipment efficiency, as well as lighting fixtures and controls. In some sense, energy codes are different compared to other building codes. They do not exist to protect the immediate health and safety of the building occupants in the same way as other codes. However, energy codes offer other substantial benefits to the individual and society. Most notably, implementing energy codes results in a reduced demand for energy. This in turn leads to a reduction in pollution associated with the burning of fossil fuels in the home or in power plants. An increase in national energy security, reductions in utility bills, and increased utility system reliability are also important benefits from the adoption of energy codes.