West Virginia Residential Energy Code Field Study

Lead Performer: Appalachian Residential Consortium for Energy Efficiency (ARCEE), WV
Partner: Marshall University’s Center for Business and Energy Research—Huntington, WV
FY16 DOE Funding: $150,000
Project Term: Current – September 30, 2016
Funding Type: Direct Funded

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

This project will measure the residential energy code compliance rate for West Virginia. The project team will conduct a baseline field study based on the residential requirements of the current state energy code, the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The study will quantify the energy savings currently being achieved, and help to identify areas for potential improvement. The results of these activities will also enable the necessary business case to influence further investments in code compliance education programs, which could lead to substantial national energy savings.

PROJECT IMPACT

Building energy codes establish energy conservation requirements for residential and commercial buildings, and represent an opportunity to incorporate proven energy-efficient technologies into standard design and construction practices. The United States has realized significant energy savings through building energy codes, with today’s model codes enabling new buildings to use 30% less energy than codes that were in place just 10 years ago. Since program conception (1992–2012), DOE Building Energy Codes Program activities have contributed to an estimated 4 quads of cumulative primary energy savings and cost savings to consumers of more than $44 billion. This project helps to ensure compliance with building energy codes, which is key to realizing the intended savings and environmental benefits. 

CONTACTS

DOE Technology Manager: David Cohan

RELATED PUBLICATIONS

https://www.energycodes.gov/compliance