Mainstreaming Building Energy Efficiency Codes in Developing Countries
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efficient homes and therefore do not put any pressure on builders to comply with BEECs. Many designers, builders, and building officials continue to have little knowledge about energy fundamentals, and this leads to poor compliance. Complexity of code requirements that prevent uniform interpretation of BEECs and perceived lack of cost-effective products that conform to BEECs are other reasons why compliance is low. Improving BEEC Compliance/Enforcement Methods and strategies for improving BEEC compliance include: 1.
Better training and certification of code officials, building professionals and building operations and maintenance staff through the state building energy code administrator; more use of hands-on, on-site training. 2. Increase local and state capacities and expertise to enforce code through the use of certified independent third-party inspectors. 3. Adopt commissioning requirements as part of the BEEC to ensure that all building systems perform as designed. 4. Track and report energy code compliance to inform progress; measuring and reporting energy performance, including benchmarking. 5. Maintain adequate and dedicated funding (for example, through a fee for service structure) so that code agencies can administrate (that is, plan review and inspect), train local officials, provide technical support, and enforce the code. 6. Simplification of BEECs, both for the ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1 (2004 version) and the IEEC (2006 version), has taken place during the past few years. For example, in the residential sector, prescriptive codes written in straightforward language seem to work best.21 7. Strategic coordination with energy efficiency program administrators to train the building design community in best practices to meet and exceed minimum energy code requirements.22 In addition to education and training, successful implementation of BEECs is improved by positive interaction of building code officials with the building industry, for example, by exchanging information about code updates, code compliance options, and innovative construction techniques. 8. Not surprisingly, having a committed and dedicated energy champion in the local building or planning department will improve the likelihood of a high degree of compliance with BEECs. This also increases the likelihood of improved compliance in surrounding jurisdictions, at the state and eventually at the national level.23 9. Financial incentives to builders, consumers, and building owners for tested and verified energy efficient and green buildings would lead to better compliance with BEECs. Some utilities provide incentives, for example, for Energy Star homes. Alternatively, penalties could be imposed; California is considering those as part of its long-term BEEC compliance plan.24 10. Increase public awareness of the multiple benefits of building energy efficiency.