On May 31, 2012, the California Energy Commission adopted the new 2013 CEC code. This code will take effect across the state starting Jan. 1, 2014.
The 2013 CEC code will include revisions to the current 2010 CEC code that will amount to about 10-20% greater energy reductions. This reduction is attributed by new system efficiency and performance requirements and methods of installation. A few noteworthy additions to the new code are the “air barrier” and system commissioning requirements.
Big LEED® News: USGBC Postpones LEEDv12 (v4) Until 2014
USGBC announced the new LEED® version 2012 will be postponed and renamed version 4 in order to align with the earlier LEED® naming format. With this announcement, USGBC ensures LEED® 2009 will be available for a full three years, while gradually ramping up incentives to encourage teams to move to the new version of LEED®. The postponement is big news to the green building industry. According to LEEDUser, “The move came in response to a growing outcry from architects and other building industry professionals-including many who have been core supporters of LEED® since its inception.” Read the LEEDUser article here: http://bit.ly/LGD5nX
Energy Star v3 to Begin This Year
Energy Star version 3 will take effect for homes permitted after Jan. 1 2012 or homes completed prior to July 1, 2012. Version 3 replaces version 2.5. New training and testing will be required by HERS and other raters in order to perform thirdparty verification of this program. The methodology for air barrier and other measures will be more detailed; Energy Star HERS raters and contractors installing insulation and mechanical systems will need to provide more verification documentation. Energy Star v3 will be one of the LEED®for Homes version 4 certification requirements in 2014.