How can you improve energy efficiency codes?

1 Review current codes

The first step to improve energy efficiency codes is to review the current codes in your jurisdiction and compare them with the best practices and benchmarks from other regions or countries. You should identify the gaps, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in the existing codes, as well as the benefits and challenges of adopting more stringent standards. You should also consider the feedback and input from stakeholders, such as building owners, developers, contractors, utilities, and consumers, who are affected by the codes.

2 Assess potential impacts

The second step to improve energy efficiency codes is to assess the potential impacts of the proposed changes on the energy system, the environment, the economy, and the society. You should use tools and methods, such as energy modeling, life cycle analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and social impact assessment, to estimate the energy savings, emission reductions, cost-effectiveness, and social acceptability of the new codes. You should also account for the uncertainties and risks involved in the implementation and enforcement of the codes.

3 Design and draft new codes

The third step to improve energy efficiency codes is to design and draft the new codes based on the results of the previous steps. You should use clear and consistent language, structure, and format to communicate the requirements and expectations of the codes. You should also use performance-based or outcome-based approaches, rather than prescriptive or input-based ones, to allow for flexibility and innovation in achieving the energy efficiency goals. You should also include provisions for monitoring, verification, and evaluation of the codes.

4 Consult and collaborate with stakeholders

The fourth step to improve energy efficiency codes is to consult and collaborate with stakeholders who are involved or affected by the codes. You should seek their feedback and input on the draft codes, and address their concerns and suggestions. You should also engage them in the development and delivery of education, training, and awareness programs to increase their knowledge and skills on the codes. You should also foster partnerships and alliances among stakeholders to create a supportive and enabling environment for the codes.

6 Evaluate and update new codes

The sixth and final step to improve energy efficiency codes is to evaluate and update the new codes periodically to measure their performance and effectiveness, and to identify areas for improvement. You should use indicators and metrics, such as energy intensity, energy consumption, energy cost, energy efficiency ratio, and energy performance index, to track and compare the energy efficiency outcomes of the codes. You should also use feedback and data from stakeholders, such as surveys, interviews, audits, and reviews, to assess their satisfaction and compliance with the codes. You should also monitor and analyze the changes and trends in the energy sector, the technology, the market, and the policy, to inform and guide the revision and update of the codes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?