June 14, 2002—The Department of Energy (DOE) is awarding $1.989 million to 22 states to update and implement building energy codes.
“These grants will enable states to improve the energy efficiency of new and renovated buildings by upgrading building codes, and will provide energy code training to more than 2,000 architects, builders, code officials and engineers,” Secretary Abraham said. “The Department of Energy’s Building Energy Codes Program contributes to President Bush’s goal of improving the energy efficiency of buildings, as outlined in his National Energy Plan.”
DOE is providing funding through State Energy Program special project competitive grants and will make the awards before the end of this fiscal year. State energy offices and state code authorities will administer the awards.
The department has also provided technical assistance to several states to upgrade their building energy codes. New York, for example, recently adopted a building code that will go into effect in July and is expected to save $46 million in energy costs per year.
For every dollar spent, the Building Energy Codes Program yields more than $105 in annual energy savings. For more information, contact the State Energy Program at 800/DOE-3732.
