The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has declared the availability of up to $530 million in competitive grants for technical assistance. These grants are designed to promote the adoption and implementation of advanced energy codes, zero energy codes, and innovative building performance standards. The Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is applicable to states, territories, and local government units that have the authority to adopt building codes.
The DOE's Office of State and Community Energy Programs (SCEP), which administers the Latest and Zero Building Energy Codes program, has provided federal guidance for eligible activities in adopting and implementing various building energy codes. This program is financed through the Inflation Reduction Act. According to a press release by DOE, these codes include the latest model energy codes such as the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code for residential and ASHRAE 90.1-2019 for commercial buildings, zero energy codes (Appendices RC and CC of the 2021 IECC), custom codes achieving equivalent or greater energy savings, and innovative code approaches like building performance standards yielding equivalent or greater energy savings.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said in a press release by DOE: "Shaping a clean energy future for cities and neighborhoods requires a whole system approach that includes modernizing the building stock to use less energy and be more resilient in the face of increasing natural disasters." She added: "Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we’re supporting states and local governments as they adopt and implement proven solutions that will save consumers money, reduce climate pollution, and build a place-based workforce of well-paid, in-demand jobs for local community members."
According to information on its About webpage provided by DOE, SCEP works with state and local organizations to expedite the deployment of clean energy technologies. This collaboration aims to boost economic development, create jobs, lower energy costs, and reduce pollution through place-based strategies. Established programs like the Weatherization Assistance Program and State Energy Program, which have a success record of over 40 years, are complemented by new initiatives such as the Local Government Energy Program and Energy Futures Grants.
