Building a home or business? You’ll need to meet tougher energy rules by 2025. These new codes aim to save energy and cut carbon emissions. This guide will explain what’s changing and how to follow the rules.
Keep reading to stay ahead!
Key Updates in 2025 Energy Codes
New rules aim to make buildings more energy-smart. These changes will impact both homes and businesses.
Enhanced energy efficiency requirements
The 2025 Energy Code pushes for better energy efficiency. New homes under 4,000 square feet must be pre-wired for electrification and install solar PV unless the site is too shaded.
Bigger homes need to meet stricter standards like HERS 0 or Phius ZERO and comply with Zero Energy Ready Home rules.
Major renovations now require higher HERS ratings. Additions must reach a score of HERS 65 or 70, up from older requirements of HERS 52 or 55. Insulation and air barriers also need verification by a rater, ensuring proper installation.
Historic buildings do not have to follow these new rating rules.
New standards for residential and nonresidential buildings
Stronger regulations will shape residential and nonresidential buildings by 2025. New rules come from energy codes like the Stretch Code and Specialized Energy Code, which align with state greenhouse gas (GHG) limits for construction.
Nonresidential rules focus on better performance, using stricter standards to reduce energy use and emissions.
Residential homes can now get up to a 5% efficiency credit if they use low-carbon materials under R406.5.2 with the embodied carbon HERS option. Ventilation upgrades are still suggestions, not requirements, in the Stretch Code; balanced systems like ERV/HRV could become mandatory later.
These updates push for sustainability while cutting environmental impact through modern construction techniques.
Decarbonization Mandates
Decarbonization rules aim to cut building emissions. These changes push for cleaner, greener construction methods.
Building performance ordinances
Building performance ordinances (BPCs) set energy rules for new buildings and major renovations. They enforce minimum efficiency standards during permitting. Cities use these to push energy savings and sustainability in construction.
Boston’s BERDO requires big, existing buildings to report annual energy use. It also demands emission cuts over time. Cambridge’s BEUDO aims for net-zero emissions by 2050 in large properties.
Building owners may need operational changes or retrofits to comply. Incentives and grants can help lower costs of upgrades needed under these rules.
Emissions reduction targets
State GHG limits will change every five years starting in 2025. These limits align new construction with carbon neutrality goals for 2050. Boston’s BERDOs aim for net-zero emissions by that year too, focusing on large buildings.
Proactive planning can lower energy bills and raise property values. Meeting these targets also provides access to grants, subsidies, and incentives for sustainable construction projects.
Builders must address decarbonization now to avoid future penalties.
Next, we will explore tools and resources to help meet compliance requirements efficiently.
Compliance Tools and Resources
Builders can use handy tools to meet energy codes. Training programs help sharpen skills for better compliance.
REScheck for residential compliance
REScheck helps meet energy compliance for homes. It calculates heat loss (UA) using location, size, and materials. Compliance is achieved if the UA matches or stays below code standards.
The tool works in all states except California, Oregon, and Virginia. You can use RESCheckWeb online or download REScheck Desktop. Reports are easy to make as PDFs for insulation standards and building codes tracking.
Training programs for builders and contractors
The ECC Program offers training to help builders and contractors follow California’s Energy Code. It covers Title 24, Part 6, and Title 20 regulations. Classes include live online courses, recorded sessions, and self-study options.
Training teaches about compliance forms for different buildings like residential or multifamily.
Builders can earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through groups such as AIA or ICC. Forms Ace and Virtual Compliance Assistant are tools provided to support learning. The program is managed by PG&E, SDG&E, and SCE with funds from utility customers.
Oversight comes from the California Public Utilities Commission.
Bottom Line
Meeting 2025 energy codes is key for building smarter, greener spaces. These rules push for cleaner air, lower carbon use, and stronger homes. Builders can use tools like REScheck to stay on track.
Focus on energy goals now to create lasting benefits later!
