It’s not sexy, but it works: Oregon moving ahead with new energy code

It’s not flashy, as evidenced by the fact that we cannot find any news coverage of the event. But Oregon’s Building Codes Structures Board has approved improvements to the state’s so-called Energy Efficiency Specialty Code that will require changes in new non-residential buildings that will cut energy use between 15% and 25%  over current regulations.

The new rules now go to public hearings, which will be in March but have yet to be scheduled. They become effective July 1.

The new code is a response to state legislation passed in 2008 requiring the  non-residential energy code to become 15% to 25% more stringent.
The draft code meets the requirement by including dozens of changes to the lighting, envelope and mechanical sections of the code. Significant energy savings will come from first-ever regulation of exterior lighting, increased insulation of concrete masonry walls, and reduced fan and pump horsepower limits.

The relative calm in Oregon is in contrast to the little kerfuffle over Washington’s attempt to improve its codes. Washington’s Building Codes Council adopted new codes to improve commercial and residential energy efficiency by 15% to 18%. Washington’s code, despite noise from a few legislators, is expected to become effective July 1.

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