The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $90 million in funding to support building energy code adoption, training, and technical assistance at the state and local level.
The DOE estimates that, from 2010 through 2040, energy codes will have saved homes and businesses $182 billion on utility bills and prevented as much carbon dioxide from reaching the atmosphere as that of 187 million gasoline-powered cars annually.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said, “DOE is helping state and local governments move further and faster in implementing stronger codes to improve energy efficiency and slash harmful, planet-warming pollutants.”
Building energy codes establish energy efficiency standards for new buildings, additions, and major renovations in residential and commercial buildings. According to the DOE, these codes are some of the most effective ways to improve efficiency, save consumers and businesses money, and reduce climate impacts. Building energy codes also ensure buildings are healthier, safer, and more resilient, especially during and after extreme weather and power outages.
This is the second round of funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Resilient and Efficient Codes Implementation program; last year, the DOE awarded $90 million for 27 projects, which included activities such as workforce development; community engagement; research and data collection; energy, equity, and environmental justice; and increased support for compliance and enforcement.
This funding supports the Biden administration’s National Initiative to Advance Building Codes. Applicants must include a relevant state or tribal government agency. The DOE will prioritize teams that include strategic partnerships, such as with local building code agencies, codes and standards developers, or associations of builders and design and construction professionals. More information is available here.
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