The 2003 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets forth regulations aimed at optimizing energy efficiency in the construction and design of buildings and structures. This code covers a broad spectrum of occupancies including public assembly, educational, business, mercantile, institutional, storage, residential, and certain factory and industrial occupancies. It specifically targets the building envelopes and the installation of energy-efficient mechanical, lighting, and service water-heating systems.
The IECC provides exemptions for buildings undergoing repairs, alterations, or changes in occupancy, allowing them to follow the International Existing Building Code instead. It also outlines specific exemptions for buildings that either have minimal energy demands or do not have conditioned spaces. Moreover, the code stipulates that in cases of modifications or changes in the use of a building, the most restrictive requirements between conflicting sections of the code will apply.
For existing installations, the code does not mandate removal or major alterations but ensures they continue to meet past compliance standards. Additions or changes to a building must comply with the new construction requirements of the IECC without necessitating the unmodified sections to conform to these standards.
Overall, the code’s intent is to regulate design aspects like thermal resistance and air leakage in building envelopes, as well as the efficiency of mechanical and lighting systems. This is to ensure that new constructions and major renovations provide optimized energy usage without compromising on safety, health, or environmental standards. The code also supports the use of innovative energy-saving techniques and materials, provided they meet the code’s standards as verified by the code official.
