The newly published 2015 edition of the International Code Council’s (ICC) “Energy Code Essentials” includes a section on the Energy Rating Index Option to the 2015 IECC. The sections states The Energy Rating Index (ERI) approach is the fifth path to energy code compliance. It is a numerical integer value that is based on a linear scale constructed such that the ERI reference design has an Index value of 100, and a residential building that uses no net purchased energy has an Index value of 0. The ERI reference design is configured such that is it meets the minimum requirements of the 2006 IECC prescriptive requirements. Each integer value on the scale represents one percent change in the total energy use of the rated design relative to the total energy used in the residential building. Compliance based on an ERI analysis requires that the rated design be shown to have an ERI less than or equal to the appropriate value listed in Table R406.4, based on the climate zone which the building is located. Furthermore, compliance is necessary with all mandatory requirements of the code, hot water pipe insulation requirements of the code, and building thermal envelope and glazing requirements of the 2009 IECC. Verification of compliance with this method must be completed by an approved third party, and documentation including compliance reports must be provided to the code official. According to the ICC, the “Energy Code Essentials” is designed to provide a straightforward, easy-to-read companion guide to the IECC for both beginning and experienced code users. The text provides accurate information on critical energy code applications in the office and in the field for residential and commercial construction. The focused coverage examines those code provisions essential to understanding the application of the IECC to the most commonly encountered building practices and discusses the reasons behind the requirements. To order the “Energy Code Essentials” go to http://shop.iccsafe.org/energy-code-essentials-2015-editionr-42829.html ICC and RESNET have entered into a partnership that will include a joint outreach campaign to building code officials explaining the ERI option and the advantages of recognition of the RESNET HERS® Index as an energy code compliance option.
