Substantial Energy-Saving Provisions in 2021 Intl. Energy Conservation Code

The 2021 version of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), the model energy code for the United States, will have substantial energy saving improvements compared to the 2018 version that is currently in use.

The updated code will include a new flexible savings mechanism that will allow builders to choose energy efficiency upgrades that work best for them to reduce energy use 5%. That can be achieved with efforts ranging from improved insulation to more efficient air conditioners and water heaters.

The code will also require builders to wire garages and parking places for future installation of electric vehicle chargers and to install electrification-ready circuits near natural gas and propane equipment. An optional zero energy appendix will provide a simple pathway for cities and states that can choose to require much higher levels of performance than in the standard IECC.

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