Without fanfare or articles in the mainstream media, the Energy Efficient Building Act became effective in Illinois on January 29, 2010 for most new residential construction in Illinois. As mentioned in an earlier blog, Illinois Governor Patrick Quinn signed the new statewide residential energy code into law on August 28th 2009. The delay between signing the law and its effective date has been the necessity to write the administrative rules.
The Energy Efficient Building Act adopts the requirements of the latest edition of the International Energy Code, currently the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). The requirements are statewide, with the exemption of a few communities such as the City of Chicago and approximately 30 other municipalities that had adopted the 2006 IECC prior to May 15th, 2009. Apart from the exempted communities, no local municipality has the authority to mandate energy requirements less than or greater than the requirements of the 2009 IECC.
It’s likely that many architects, builders and code officials are not yet aware of the new residential energy code requirements. Although SWA Architects has already been providing upgraded insulation packages for many of the homes we design, the new code will affect some of our details and specifications. For instance, new provisions require that at least 50% of the permanent lighting be high efficient lighting, meaning pin type compact fluorescent or LED lighting. Wood burning fireplaces must now have gasketed doors. Other significant changes include mandatory foundation insulation and 2×6 construction or 1” of continuous rigid insulation over exterior studs. All ductwork must be sealed and any ductwork outside the building envelope must be insulated to a minimum of R8 and must be tested for duct leakage.
Regarding additions or renovation, the Code applies only to the portions of that structure that are being added, altered, renovated, or repaired.
These new state requirements are not significantly greater than homes built using the 2006 IECC, however, most communities in Illinois were using 2003 IECC or earlier, so many standard practices will need to change. The reality is that the 2009 IECC reflects the good practices already in place for building energy efficient green homes. And although I do not advocate mandates, I am encouraged to see this statewide energy code, as energy conservation is the most effective way of dealing with energy issues.
-Bill Styczynski
Tags: Bill Styczynski, Building Code, Energy Efficiency, Legacy Design and Construction, Residential
Excellent analysis and summary of the energy code, Bill. As you mention some of these measures are practices that quality builders have already been doing for years. Of course, the devil is in the details.
Interestingly, many of the measures are items that green building rating systems require. For instance, any fireplaces must have gasketed doors in LEED for Homes not only to prevent energy loss, but also to help control indoor air pollutants. By following the 2009 IECC, builders will be halfway to a LEED-certified home, and should be able to have every home Energy Star certified if they desire.
Jason