Commercial Building Inspector B2Public Safety and Special ConstructionEasy
A building inspector is reviewing the energy performance of a new 10-story mixed-use commercial building (Group M and B occupancies). Which of the following codes or standards is primarily referenced by the IBC for the energy efficiency requirements of such a building?
- ANational Electrical Code (NEC)
- BInternational Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
- CInternational Green Construction Code (IgCC)
- DASHRAE Standard 90.1
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
The International Building Code (IBC) widely references the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for detailed energy efficiency requirements for commercial and residential buildings. While ASHRAE 90.1 is an alternative compliance path, IECC is the primary referenced code.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The NEC (NFPA 70) governs electrical installations for safety, not energy efficiency.
- C. The IgCC focuses on broader green building practices, not solely energy efficiency, and is not the primary reference for basic energy code compliance within IBC.
- D. ASHRAE Standard 90.1 is an alternative compliance path for energy efficiency but is not the *primary* code referenced by the IBC; IECC is more commonly adopted or referenced directly.
IBC Energy Code Reference
The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is the primary code referenced by the International Building Code (IBC) for establishing minimum energy efficiency requirements in commercial and residential buildings.
- IECC covers building envelope, HVAC, water heating, lighting, and power.
- ASHRAE 90.1 is often an alternative compliance pathway.
- Aims to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Memory trick: For energy, the IECC is the primary key.