Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm emphasizes the importance of modernizing buildings for a clean energy future
The Department of Energy (DOE) has announced its support for the adoption of the latest model energy codes, zero energy codes, and building performance standards as a means to achieve widespread emissions reductions. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm stated that shaping a clean energy future for cities and neighborhoods requires a holistic approach, which includes upgrading buildings to be more energy-efficient and resilient in the face of natural disasters.
Granholm further highlighted that the DOE, thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, is providing support to states and local governments in adopting and implementing proven solutions that will not only save consumers money but also reduce climate pollution and create well-paid, in-demand jobs for local community members.
The DOE receives $1 billion for awarding grants to jurisdictions for adopting the latest energy codes
As part of its efforts to promote energy efficiency, the DOE has been allocated $1 billion to award grants to local jurisdictions that adopt the most recent energy codes, specifically the 2021 International Energy Conservation Codes (IECC) developed by the International Code Council. In addition, the DOE has opened applications for another $400 million in building code upgrades under the Investing in America agenda.
The 2021 IECC, which will be updated again in 2024, includes various standards that ensure a high level of energy efficiency in new building construction. However, the National Association of Home Builders has warned that the technological upgrades required by the 2021 IECC could increase the cost of a new home by up to $31,000.
Controversy arises over the potential ban on natural gas hookups in new buildings
Experts have expressed concerns that the federal push for more efficient building codes nationwide could lead to policies that ban new buildings from having natural gas hookups and require them to be “all-electric.” Critics argue that this is part of the Biden administration’s climate agenda, which aims to incentivize state and local governments to align with its goals.
Ben Lieberman, a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, believes that the focus on building codes is a significant aspect of the government’s war on natural gas. He highlights that these codes not only include bans on natural gas hookups but also impose stricter safety requirements, which may not be based on legitimate safety concerns but rather on making natural gas more expensive and difficult to use.
Environmentalists support energy code updates to reduce emissions
For years, environmentalists have been advocating for energy code updates as part of their efforts to curb emissions and combat global warming. Buildings are responsible for approximately 30% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, including electricity generation. Several Democratic-led cities, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and New York City, have already implemented varying energy codes to reduce emissions.
However, critics argue that these local code updates often go unnoticed by the public. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, the director of the Heritage Foundation’s Center for Energy, Climate, and Environment, believes that a significant portion of the incentives for natural gas bans and electrification mandates are hidden within these updates. She suggests that consumers should have the freedom to choose their preferred energy sources and appliances without government interference.
Biden administration also targets gas-powered home appliances
Alongside the push for more energy-efficient building codes, the Biden administration has issued a range of regulations targeting gas-powered home appliances. Critics argue that these regulations, such as the focus on gas water heaters, stoves, and furnaces, will result in higher prices for consumers.
