Quote:
Among the energy-related provisions in the bill that affect buildings: state energy efficiency (SEED) funds, which would
offer low- or zero-interest loans to fund energy efficiency upgrades for buildings. A second, similar program dubbed Retrofit for Energy and Environmental Performance (REEP) would include
broader incentives such as audits, technical assistance and training, along with credit support.
The bill would also require creation of an
energy labeling program for buildings. It would raise standards for outdoor lighting systems and appliances. In addition, the bill would require research into whether Energy Star products should be made compatible with smart grid technology.
Another provision would dramatically boost energy efficiency in building codes — and create a much stronger role for the Department of Energy (DOE) in establishing model codes. The changes would in effect require the new version of ASHRAE’s 90.1 to be 30 percent more efficient than the 2004 version. By 2016 the code would need to be 50 percent more efficient than the 2004 version.
“
Those are very aggressive targets,” says Karen Penafiel, vice president of advocacy for Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International.
The practical effect of the change means that if the ASHRAE committee updates 90.1 and the changes don’t add up to an improvement of at least 30 percent,
DOE would have the authority to make a revised code that is more efficient.
The bill would allow
DOE to set the code if ASHRAE doesn’t update it every three years. The bill also includes provisions aimed at speeding adoption of new energy codes
http://www.facilitiesnet.com/green/artic...ong-Odds--10874