Lead Performer: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) – Richland, WA
FY16 DOE Funding: $458,860
Project Term: Current – December 31, 2016
Funding Type: Direct Lab Funding

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

The DOE Building Energy Codes Program (BECP) supports energy efficiency in buildings through the development and implementation of national model energy codes for residential and commercial buildings. In support of this mission, PNNL conducts technical analysis to identify the energy and cost savings associated with model code updates—both nationally and on a state level. PNNL also provides interactive tools to support states and localities updating their energy codes. Overall, increased access to this information helps encourage and facilitate the adoption of the model codes.

PROJECT IMPACT

Building energy codes establish energy conservation requirements for residential and commercial buildings, and represent an opportunity to incorporate proven energy-efficient technologies into standard design and construction practices. The United States has realized significant energy savings through building energy codes, with today’s model codes enabling new buildings to use 30% less energy than codes that were in place just 10 years ago. Since program conception (1992–2012), DOE Building Energy Codes Program activities have contributed to an estimated 4 quads of cumulative primary energy savings and cost savings to consumers of more than $44 billion. This project increases energy savings by encouraging model code adoption and expanding the number of states adopting building energy codes.

CONTACTS

DOE Technology Manager: Jeremy Williams
Lead Performer: Bing Liu, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)

RELATED PUBLICATIONS

https://www.energycodes.gov/adoption