Grant program launched to support stronger building energy codes
The Colorado Energy Office launched the Energy Code Adoption & Enforcement Grant Program earlier this month, which will support local governments in updating their building energy codes and ensuring these codes meet or exceed new state energy code requirements. This grant is one of the first statewide grant programs in the country to provide money to local governments to help adopt stronger building energy codes. Through the Building Greenhouse Gas Emissions bill (HB22-1362), CEO will award $2 million to aid local governments in this effort.
Energy codes are proven to reduce energy use and emissions from buildings, which are the fifth leading source of greenhouse gas emissions in Colorado. Widespread local adoption and enforcement of these codes is a key strategy in achieving the state’s emissions reduction targets of 26% by 2025, 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050 from 2005 levels.
“By offering this assistance, the state is enabling local governments to make important updates to their energy codes that will reduce emissions from new and majorly renovated buildings in Colorado, improve indoor air quality and comfort, and save Coloradans money on energy costs and future clean energy improvements,” said CEO’s Senior Program Manager for Building Codes Adam Berry. “We are committed to making code adoption as smooth as possible for local governments in Colorado.”
Local governments are required to adopt and enforce a code that meets or exceeds the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code and the state’s model electric ready and solar ready code when updating any other building code after July 1, 2023, and the state’s low energy and carbon code when updating any building code after July 1, 2026.
“With so much new construction in Colorado, it’s especially important that new buildings are built to maximize energy efficiency and accommodate clean energy technologies, such as rooftop solar, electric appliances and electric vehicle chargers,” said CEO Executive Director Will Toor. “This funding will ease the cost burden on local governments of adopting and enforcing these energy codes, which will accelerate the adoption process and ensure new homes and buildings across the state are ready for Colorado’s clean energy future.”
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