Navigating the Next Generation of Energy Codes

The advancement of building energy codes continues to accelerate across the nation. Recently, progressive jurisdictions have pushed the envelope by adopting the International Code Council International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 2021, and in some cases, even IECC 2024.

With these updates comes a host of well-intentioned utility cost-saving requirements that may create unexpected design and construction impacts for developers, architects, engineers, and building owners. Many project teams are discovering that energy code compliance is no longer a simple “check-the-box” exercise.

At Lorax, we help clients navigate these evolving requirements early in design to avoid surprises at permit and identify the most cost-effective path to compliance.

Where IECC 2021 Is Already in Effect

Maryland, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, and others have adopted statewide energy codes conforming to IECC 2021. Some smaller jurisdictions, such as Franklin, Tennessee, have also joined this energy-efficiency movement.

Most of these areas include locally adopted amendments that require careful consideration during the design phase for each locality. While every jurisdiction is slightly different, the common themes are similar.

IECC 2021 / ASHRAE 90.1-2019 generally requires:

• Improved HVAC efficiency
• Lower lighting power density
• Enhanced building envelope performance
• Increased ventilation and outdoor air requirements
• Greater use of energy recovery systems

Most projects will have little trouble finding code-minimum glass, maintaining similar wall and roof insulation assemblies, or meeting lighting power restrictions through COMcheck. Mechanical manufacturers have also largely kept pace with evolving minimum HVAC efficiency requirements.

Where we have seen the most trouble come from in these jurisdictions is the greater requirement for ventilation air energy recovery, with an especially notable increase in the requirements for dwelling units. This is where many projects begin to encounter significant cost, coordination, and space-planning challenges.

Using Energy Modeling to Create Flexibility

Buildings that perform well in one area can often leverage those gains to offset more challenging compliance requirements elsewhere through Total Building Performance energy modeling.

By performing a whole-building energy model, Lorax helps clients demonstrate that efficiency improvements in one system can compensate for limitations in another, unlike the strict nature of a traditional Prescriptive Approach to energy code compliance.

Common energy efficiency gains that can show benefits using a Performance Approach to energy Code:

• Improved envelope performance using low U-value glazing
• High-efficiency heat pumps or VRF systems
• Optimized lighting design
• Reduced energy loads through thoughtful building design

This Performance Approach using energy modeling can provide flexibility beyond the strict nature of the traditional Prescriptive Path to compliance.

If a project has a specific challenge, such as insulation limitations, ventilation constraints, or difficulty accommodating airside heat recovery, our team can evaluate alternatives and identify the most effective strategy for maximizing energy savings while controlling construction costs.

Looking Ahead: IECC 2024 and Mandatory Solar

Going a step further, today’s front-runners in energy efficiency offer a glimpse into what many jurisdictions may soon require.

Places such as Montgomery County and Howard County, Maryland; the state of Illinois; Austin, Texas; and Nashville, Tennessee have already moved toward IECC 2024 / ASHRAE 90.1-2022 adoption.

In addition to broader building-wide efficiency standards, this code cycle introduces new requirements for on-site renewable energy production, most commonly through solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

These newer code cycles may impact:

• Roof space planning
• Electrical infrastructure sizing
• Structural coordination
• First-cost budgeting
• Long-term operational savings strategies

Like any major code update, these requirements are most successful when considered proactively during early design.

Planning Ahead Reduces Surprises

As energy codes continue to evolve, successful projects will depend on early coordination, informed decision-making, and a clear understanding of compliance pathways.

Whether through energy modeling, code analysis, commissioning, envelope consulting, or sustainability strategy, Lorax works with project teams to simplify increasingly complex energy requirements and develop practical, cost-effective solutions tailored to each building.

The earlier these conversations begin, the more opportunities there are to avoid costly redesigns and deliver high-performing buildings that meet both code requirements and project goals.