Upgrade BuildingEnergy Codes (RCI Action 1.4a)

Update New Hampshire's building energy code to require improved energy efficiency in new construction and building renovations. Building energy codes represent one of the more cost-effective ways to reduce energy use and related carbon emissions. The state should participate in the International Energy Conservation CodeTM (IECC) update process, either on its own or by providing input through other regional partners that do participate, such as Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP). There is considerable evidence that if New Hampshire is to achieve deeper greenhouse gas emission reductions, the state's building energy code should be more stringent than the current IECC. In addition to updating its mandatory building energy code, the state could define a preferred "stretch code" that sets even higher, but voluntary, "green" building energy performance standards to advance the state's policy objectives.