The IECC is an energy code, developed by the International Code Council (ICC), for all buildings— including low-rise
residential. Both the standard and code are updated on a three-year cycle; however the timelines are not concur-
rent. The latest versions of both contain the most recent information that has been developed nationally. ANSI/
ASHRAE-2007 and IECC-2009 are the most current versions of each set of material.
Why should I buy an Energy Star Home if my state has an energy code to assure my home is
energy efficient?
Energy Star Homes are usually 15% more efficient than the most recent national model energy codes adopted by
states and jurisdictions. Energy Star Homes also undergo a rigorous testing and inspection process by a rater (an en-
ergy professional) and receive a special certification. Energy Star Homes are more energy efficient than those built to
the local or state energy code and are also likely to help people save on energy bills throughout life of the home.
Are there any programs out there that can help to identify opportunities for energy effi-
ciency in a specific community?
The US-Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Energy Challenge program offers simple to use software - Portfolio
Manager and Target Finder – which analyze utility bill data for buildings. These tools help to identify the potential
energy savings that can be realized in a particular location’s buildings. The EPA has resources that can then point you
to federal, state and local programs to help better determine the savings and financing options for these properties.
http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=challenge_community.showIntroduction
How can builders leverage advanced or voluntary programs for competitive advantage?
Both the US-EPA Energy Star Homes and the US-DOE Building America Builders Challenge offer programs that can be
used to measure the performance of homes and assign certification that can help set a builder apart from those who
do not participate. Energy Star Homes: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.hm_index
Where can information about mortgage products available to purchasers of Energy Star
homes be found?
There is a great deal of information on the RESNET website: http://www.natresnet.org/
BCAP Council (NRDC), and the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE)
1850 M St. NW Suite 600 | Washington, DC | www.bcap-ocean.org