Energy Codes set minimum efficiency requirements for new and renovated buildings, assuring reductions in energy use and emissions over the life of the building. Code buildings are more comfortable and cost-effective to operate, assuring energy, economic and environmental benefits.

In an effort to reduce energy consumption and combat climate change, the United States has adopted rigorous energy standards across its states and territories. Energy codes in the United States have become increasingly stringent over the last few years as shown in the image below. The darker blue according to the legend indicates the newer energy code versions. By comparing the the two map, one can see how many states have updated to the later version of the code and how the map has become darker. This progressive tightening of energy codes is supported by federal policies, such as the Inflation Reduction Act, which recognize that robust regulation will ultimately contribute to the country's efforts in achieving its national sustainability targets.

This makes more sense when knowing that according to Architecture 2030, roughly 40% of all energy consumption in the United States comes from commercial and residential buildings. Therefore, high performance buildings regulated by more stringent energy codes can significantly reduce the energy and carbon emission. The United States is among the many countries that place high importance on sustainability and are expected to continue to strengthen regulation throughout the coming years.

In cove.tool, the project's energy code is automatically selected based on building location. Each of the states in the US has adopted a specific version of ASHRAE 90.1 or IECC standards. Also, some states comply with their own energy code that they have developed. The selected code will load all the prescriptive inputs (envelope, lighting, etc.) based on the codes. Other inputs that are not specified by energy codes are based on industry-standard practice, ASHRAE User's Manual, and the PNNL Prototypes.

The map below, shows the default energy codes that have been adopted by each state. The energy codes are sourced from the states official website. Some of the states including California, Vermont, Seattle, and New York comply with state-specific codes.

- The states that are listed below currently are complying with older versions of ASHRAE 90.1. However, cove.tool picks the planned updated code.

- For the states with nonstate wide energy codes or Homerule, we assign the energy code used by the most populous city in that state. For example, Arizona's energy code version is 2016 since Phoenix complies with that version.

- Some states are planning to update in 2023 but still are using an old version. we will go with the new planned version even if it's not effective yet.

While the selection of energy code is automated, users are able to change the energy code from the code menu on the project info page. The following is a complete list of energy codes and guidelines supported by the platform. Not all these codes are listed in the menu. However, by entering the location, the proper energy codes will be selected and appear on the list.

Domestic (USA)

International (Commercial Building Types)