The Cost of Energy Efficiency

Currently, there is a building code revision bill going through the state legislature (HB316). On both sides, this bill is supported and opposed by architects, builders, clean air advocates, and affordable housing groups. The bill, introduced by Representative Brad Wilson, R-Kaysville, proposes to adopt multiple recommendations from the  Uniform Building Code Commission that deal with everything from fire codes, commercial codes and residential codes on new construction. Such codes deal with wiring, the depth of insulation, plumbing, ventilation, ductwork and other components of construction.

However, as reported by  The Deseret News last week , opponents of the bill say it doesn't do anything to make homes more energy efficient. "It is a lot cheaper to build efficiency into a home rather than having to spend thousands to improve energy systems," said David Brem, with  GSBS Architects and a member of the Governor's Clean Air Action Team.

Wilson and proponents of the bill argued some provisions in the building codes don't offer enough of a return to justify the cost to builders or consumers, and it is important to keep costs low for those wanting to purchase a home.

With homes and other buildings projected to be the dominant source of pollutants by 2050, clean air advocates, the governor's office and state regulators have been pushing for ways to cut emissions.

Wilson's bill would require new homes to include ultralow NOX water heaters — saving 2,700 tons of pollutants from being emitted — but also mandate that any future air quality rules that impact building codes have stricter scrutiny by lawmakers.

What do you think? Is it possible to build energy-efficient homes AND keep housing affordable? Or should safety codes be kept separate from environmental issues?