Past, Present and Future of Building Energy Codes and DOE Appliance Mandates

National, state, and even local energy codes have continued to change, requiring increasing energy conservation standards. ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers) Standard 90.1 and International Energy Conservation model energy code have been increasing the energy conservation standard every three years. The Department of Energy (DOE) has mandated energy conservation standards for residential central air conditioners and heat pumps since 1992. These codes mandates have increased over time and will continued to do so. Commercial and residential construction techniques have changed dramatically over the past 20 years. This interactive online course will review the state of current mandates and standards and describe the future requirements of the model energy codes and DOE mandates.

• List the energy conservation requirements for building construction components including exterior walls, roofs, windows, slab insulation, doors, crawl spaces and skyline.
• State the energy conservation standards for lighting and plumbing fixtures.
• List the requirements for air barriers and how to install them so that they significantly improve the building energy efficiency, durability, and occupant comfort, health and safety.
• Locate the current energy conservation standards and mandates that contribute to public health, safety and environmental protection.
• Determine the DOE standards for HVAC equipment and appliances.
• Compare and contrast the impact of Energy Star, the LEED rating system, and Net Zero Energy Standards in decreasing national energy consumption and improving public health.