Building Codes Assistance Project

District of Columbia News Release, FEBRUARY 18, 2008

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty has joined mayors from across the country in calling for the adoption of more energy-efficient building standards. The reforms, known as the 30% Solution, would make new residential construction 30 percent more energy efficient. In a letter to the International Energy Code Committee*, the mayoral coalition urged the committee "to take an ambitious, achievable and affordable step toward improving America's energy efficiency."

George Hawkins, Director of the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) was encouraged by the possibility of changes and said, "Incorporating these changes will reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions."

"The 30% Solution" includes:

Higher-efficiency window requirements
Increased flexibility and higher efficiency for insulation requirements
Improved building envelope sealing to reduce air leaks
Increased flexibility and higher efficiency and function
HVAC sizing requirements to maximize efficiency and function
Lighting efficiency improvements
Improvements to energy modeling methodologies
Consolidation of codes to reduce market confusion

The group says that the proposal can ease the mounting energy demand that drives new power plant construction needs, help stabilize electricity costs and enhance affordability for home owners, and create green jobs for our communities. Nationally, it will enhance the country's industrial competitiveness and create more vibrant markets for homebuilders. Globally, it will assist in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Public hearings on the 2009 Building Code Development are tentatively scheduled for February 18 - March 2, 2008.

 For more information please consult the Institute for Market Transformation Website.

For code status information please consult the BCAP District of Columbia Code Status Webpage.