|
Energy Conservation in Construction
Iowa Code section 103A.7, subsection 6 provides that
the State of Iowa Building Code shall include "reasonable provisions"
for
| 6. The conservation of
energy through thermal and lighting efficiency standards for buildings
intended for human occupancy or use. |
Related provisions of the Code of Iowa provide for the
adoption of energy conservation requirements for commercial and for residential
construction. The "State Energy Code" applies to all commercial
construction, whether new construction or construction work on existing
buildings. These requirements also apply to all new construction of one
and two family residences in ths state, but not to renovation or remodeling
of one and two family residences.
The State Energy Code is a part of the State Building
Code, although it is set off in its own chapter of the administrative
rules of the Department of Public Safety (661
Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 303). With one amendment, the Building
Code Commissioner has adopted the energy conservation requirements contained
in the International Energy Conservation Code, 2006 edition.
The State Energy Code is a subject of significant interest
currently. In 2008, the Iowa General Assembly enacted legislation creating
the Commission on Energy Efficiency Standards and Practices. The Commission,
which has a two-year life and is scheduled to deliver its final report
by January 1, 2011, is charged with studying the following:
Evaluate energy efficiency standards applicable to existing or newly
constructed residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and
vertical infrastructure at the state and local level and make suggestions
for their improvement and enforcement. The evaluation of energy efficiency
standards shall include but not be limited to a review of the following:
(1) The reduction in energy usage likely to result from the adoption
and enforcement of the standards.
(2) The effect of compliance with the standards on indoor air quality.
(3) The relationship of the standards to weatherization programs for
existing housing stock and to the availability of affordable housing,
including rental units.
Develop recommendations for new energy efficiency standards, specifications,
or guidelines applicable to newly constructed residential, commercial,
and industrial buildings and vertical infrastructure.
Develop recommendations for the establishment of incentives for energy
efficiency construction projects which exceed currently applicable
state and local building codes.
Develop recommendations for adoption of a statewide energy efficiency
building labeling or rating system for residential, commercial, and
industrial buildings and complexes.
|
| 
