Thermal Efficiency Standards and Codes. Volume 1. State-of-the-ART Literature Review and Analysis of Secondary Data

摘要

The impacts of mandated thermal efficiency standards on construction practices were estimated by: (1) reviewing the standard methology, correcting data errors, and adding factors such as compliance; (2) analyzing state legislation to determine date of code/standard adoption, date of implementation, buildings covered, and stringency of the code administration process and training programs on enforcement and construction practices; and (3) examining the correlations between measures of code compliance, the code characteristics described above, and such external variables as climate, fuel prices, and state demographics. Among the conclusions drawn from this research are that: (1) reported energy savings were overestimated by as much as 500% in 1980 due solely to inaccurate construction rates and energy consumption figures; (2) as of January 1, 1982, only 27 states had codes which fully met federal requirements and seven states had no effective codes in place which even partially met requirements; and (3) no significant correlations were found between existence, age, or characteristics of a code/standard and improved construction practices or compliance with ASHRAE insulation requirements. Conclusions cover policy implications related to federal attempts to mandate state and local legislation, the role of the construction industry in improving energy efficiency in new buildings, and suggestions for further research. (ERA citation 08:039049)