Mainstreaming Building Energy Efficiency Codes in Developing Countries
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One of the biggest challenges for successful BEEC implementation is the governance of the construction sector in terms of the inclusiveness and effectiveness of the government oversight system. Although the Chinese permit system may appear to be most time consuming and cumbersome (table 5.4), it seems to have been relatively effectively enforced, as indicative from its relative success in BEEC compliance (box 5.2). On the other extreme, the building permit system in Mexico appears to be simple, efficient, and well established (if very diverse) at the local level. Discretion is, however, commonly practiced in building inspection, raising doubts on the effectiveness of compliance enforcement. Simplifying procedures and reducing red tape are clearly needed, but having a system that is able to deliver the needed supervision also is critical. Partially triggered by the inability of governments to respond to the need for building permits amidst a surge in new construction, many countries have allowed accredited private-sector agents to carry out some compliance checks and enforcement tasks. This is similar to the developments that are taking place in OECD countries also.
Table 5.4. Dealing with Construction Permits: Warehouse Construction from Initiation to Completion Country or region
Number of Procedures
Total Days Required
Cost as % of per Capita Income
China (Shanghai)
37
336
579
Egypt (Cairo)
25
218
332
37/15-37
195/80-258
2395/204-2718 113
India (Mumbai/Range of other cities) Mexico (Mexico City)
12
138
OECD countries
15.1
157
56
East Asia and Pacific
18.6
169
140
South Asia
18.4
241
2311
Mideast and North Africa
18.9
159
358
Source: The World Bank Group: http://www.doingbusiness.org/ExploreTopics/DealingLicenses/.
Since the four countries are at rather different stages of implementing BEECs and their political and economic conditions also are quite different, the nature and the extent of the constraints to mainstreaming BEECs in each country vary significantly. Table 5.5 summarizes the main barriers and constraints in BEEC implementation and actions needed for the four countries.