New NC Building Codes for Energy Conservation

The North Carolina Building Code Council voted Dec. 14, 2010 to increase energy efficiency standards in new homes and buildings, which will save consumers an average of $30 to $100 each month, create jobs across our state, and help home builders who have struggled during the recession. The Council voted to increase efficiency standards in commercial construction by 30 percent and in residential construction by 15 percent beyond the building code’s current standard. The new building code will take effect in January 2012 and becomes mandatory in March 2012. In addition to the mandatory 15 percent increase in residential efficiency, the Council also established a voluntary compliance path and special recognition for builders who choose to build new homes to the higher 30 percent efficiency standards and above. The new building code takes effect January 2012.