building codes
Newsletter
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Biden's plan may make new homes greener and pricier
The Biden administration is planning to enforce stricter energy efficiency standards for new homes, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs.
In short:
- New federal policy may require most new homes to include efficient heating and cooling systems, aligning with the latest international energy standards.
- The change could add approximately $7,200 to the cost of a new home, but potentially save homeowners $1,000 annually in energy bills.
- Homebuilders argue that the policy will further increase housing costs and deter potential buyers already challenged by high interest rates.
Key quote:
“This policy could save homeowners thousands on energy bills while significantly cutting down pollution.”
— Thomas Frank, Reporter.
Why this matters:
Implementing stricter energy codes in new homes can significantly cut the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Despite increasing upfront costs, long-term energy savings and environmental benefits are substantial.
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Credit: Avel Chuklanov/Unsplash
Builders resist stricter energy codes for new homes
In a clash over climate and affordability, home builders are lobbying against stricter energy efficiency standards for new houses, citing cost concerns.
In short:
- Home builders in various states, including North Carolina and Michigan, are opposing new energy efficiency building codes, arguing they increase housing costs.
- The industry claims these codes add significantly to construction costs, though federal studies suggest a much lower impact.
- Climate advocates and some builders counter that energy-efficient homes offer long-term savings and environmental benefits.
Key quote:
"The notion that building this way is too expensive or too complicated … I just don’t buy any of that."
— Rob Howard, green builder
Why this matters:
This resistance to energy-efficient building practices is significant as it hinders progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from homes, which account for a significant portion of U.S. emissions. The debate underscores the challenge of balancing economic interests with urgent environmental needs.
Op-ed: When a home is not a sanctuary but a sickening, expensive trap.
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Image by Borko Manigoda from Pixabay
Building codes save money and lives
As climate change increases the number and severity of natural disasters, an investment in updated building codes will save billions in repairs.
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In North Carolina, housing affordability at center of debate over building codes
Builders claim efficiency upgrades will prices homes out of reach, but numerous experts say energy savings more than make up the difference.
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Photo by Thom Milkovic on Unsplash
Washington state hits the brakes on landmark gas ban
Washington state building code officials voted Wednesday to delay the first statewide mandate for electric heat pumps in new buildings, dealing a blow to a landmark restriction on natural gas.
Image by Ulrich Dregler from Pixabay
Washington’s updated building codes seen as vital tool to fight climate change
New building codes are designed to cut a chunk of Washington’s net carbon emissions. Specifically, they will tackle the state's fastest growing and second largest carbon-producing sector: buildings.
N.C. reconsiders energy code amid builder opposition
Facing fierce opposition from developers, the panel in charge of North Carolina’s building codes will weigh changes to its proposal for thicker insulation, more efficient lighting, and other energy-saving features in new homes.
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