Codes and Standards

Energy codes and standards set  and raise  the bar for energy efficiency for appliances, buildings and equipment.

Raising the Bar

National and state energy codes drive designers to consider energy use in the early phases of production and embed a lifetime of energy savings in product design. For a building that lasts 70 years and major appliances that last 15 years, codes and standards are cost- effective and dependable ways to ensure long-term energy savings.

Appliance Standards

Appliance standards require manufacturers' products to meet minimum energy efficiency specifications, as established by the U.S. Congress. Standards cover a growing set of products, including air conditioners, refrigerators, dishwashers and clothes washers.

Building Codes

Building energy codes overcome market barriers that hamper investment in building energy efficiency. These codes require new and significantly renovated buildings to achieve specific energy targets in the building envelope and major equipment; including insulation, windows, heating and cooling, water heating, and lighting. The Building Codes Assistance Project promotes the adoption, implementation, and advancement of building energy codes in the US and abroad. Please visit their best practices network to find out more.