A Stronger Code Increases Energy Efficiency in New Buildings
This Tuesday, September 8th, during their work session, City Council will discuss and provide direction to staff regarding their willingness to adopt the updated 2024 “Suite of Building & Fire Codes,” including a stronger Energy Code, at a date in the near future (see proposed dates below). International Energy Codes are released every three years, and the city adopts them every six years. The City of Flagstaff is currently using the 2018 Energy Code. Use of updated codes support safer, more durable and resilient communities.
Reducing emissions from buildings is critical to meeting Flagstaff’s climate goals. It would really help if there was a strong community showing both in-person and through emailed comments to demonstrate the importance to our community of adopting this updated Energy Code.
City Council will consider adopting an updated and stronger energy code to increase energy efficiency in new buildings. Enhanced energy codes help save energy, reduce utility bills, improve indoor comfort, and provide greater safety during extreme weather. They are also one of the more effective tools Flagstaff can use to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its built environment. Energy efficiency features account for about 1-2% of a new home’s sale price. Building codes establish minimum standards and are only required with construction requiring a new building permit.
If you are able, please consider attending the September 8th work session and give a public comment. If not, please send in comments to council ASAP using this email address council@flagstaffaz.gov and express your support for adopting the new energy code. Council meeting agendas can be found here.
The updated “Suite of Codes” discussion is number 7 on the agenda and the only major item, thus I expect it to be discussed shortly after the beginning of the meeting which starts at 3:00 at City Hall.
