Gregoire Asks SBCC To Delay Energy Code
Washington Governor Christine Gregoire just wrote a letter to John Cochran, the Chair of the Washington State Building Code Council asking him to defer the new energy code until April 2011. Gregoire's concern is of the probable negative impact the code would have on the recovery of the economy and the construction industry.
The Governor's request is timely given the lawsuit filed recently by the BIAW (that we posted earlier).
We also posted two questions in April and May about green codes: "Can homebuying consumers bear the cost of new green and energy codes during recession?" and "Should green building codes be mandatory?" Both questions appear to have been answered by the Governor. In the long term, Green can be affordable, but in the short term, during hard economic times it may have to be deferred or remain voluntary.
It seems that between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of our state government that until the recession is over, there should be no further mandates requiring taxpaying citizens and businesses to pay more for greener and more energy efficient homes. However, once recovery happens and the construction industry exhausts existing supplies of non-green materials and components, that the cost benefit of green energy efficient materials and components may be mandated and embraced by all Washington residents for the obvious future long term benefits.
Does the delay mean NRFC certification for doors and glazings is also delayed?
Hi Tom,
Great question. I did not know the answer so sent your question as an email to the WSBCC. Will share their response. Thanks.
Greg
Tim here's your answer:
No. NFRC certification is still required for doors and glazings.
Tim Nogler
Managing Director
Washington State Building Code Council
906 Columbia Street SW
Olympia, Washington 98504-2525
(360) 725-2969
tim.nogler@commerce.wa.gov