A Governor-request bill is proposing an amendment to the state energy code with the intent to address part of the statewide greenhouse gas emissions limits. The goal is to achieve construction of zero fossil-fuel greenhouse gas emission homes and buildings
by 2030.
HB 1770, sponsored by Rep. Davina Duerr (D–Bothell), changes the energy code to require new buildings to be “net-zero ready,”
which includes:
- A reduction of at least 80 percent in annual net energy consumption using the adopted 2006 state energy code as a baseline; and
- Wiring for photovoltaic panel installation under the residential and nonresidential state energy codes that are adopted by the council by 2034.
The bill directs the state Building Code Council to further define “net-zero ready” and include measures to meet the new definition in the code. The Council is also directed to adopt a rule for a new statewide reach code to be effective by
2023.
The bill restates that each jurisdiction must enforce the state energy building code or adopt the statewide residential reach code, adding that the reach code cannot exceed net-zero energy use. All other local codes are preempted, including those that
were grandfathered in under the last energy code change (i.e., those that pre-dated March 1, 1990).
Finally, HB 1770 removes the allowance that space heating equipment efficiency can offset or substitute for building envelope thermal performance.
Date to remember
HB 1770 will be heard in the House Local Government Committee on Wednesday, January 19 at 10 am.