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In this Newsletter:
- Upcoming Webinars
- Randy's Roadshow - Where I'm Heading
- Energy Code Ambassador Program
- Save the Date: TECCC & Ambassadors Meeting
- Houston Adopts 2021 IECC
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Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) Press Release
- Noteworthy + Previous Webinar Offerings
- Energy Efficiency in Texas
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2021 IECC Code Compliance for Residential Construction
This informative session is tailored for architects, builders, and contractors looking to navigate the 2021 IECC as it applies to residential construction. Gain actionable insights into the latest code updates, compliance requirements, and best practices to ensure your projects meet the highest standards of energy efficiency. Whether you’re planning a new building, inspecting a new house, or renovating an existing property, this webinar will equip you with the knowledge you need to stay compliant and contribute to a more sustainable future. You’ll also get a Sneak Peek at some of the approved requirements for the upcoming 2024 IECC.
Have a specific question you want addressed during the webinar? Email me before the webinar at rplumlee@eepartnership.org with the name of the webinar in the subject line.
When: Friday, September 22nd, 10:30 AM
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Energy Codes and Residential Buildings: What every homeowner needs to know
Let’s demystify the complexities of the energy code and how they impact residential buildings. Whether you’re a homeowner, a prospective homebuyer, or a real estate inspector, this webinar will provide you with invaluable insights into the basics of energy codes, their implications on home construction and renovation, and their influence on property value. Don’t miss the chance to learn about the financial benefits of energy-efficient homes and get your questions answered in a live Q&A session!
Have a specific question you want addressed during the webinar? Email me before the webinar at rplumlee@eepartnership.org with the name of the webinar in the subject line.
When: Tuesday, September 26th, 10:30 AM
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IRA and IIJA for Energy Efficiency Teams
This webinar will provide an overview of IRA and IIJA with a particular focus on customer-facing programs including programs that can help promote the adoption of energy efficiency, building electrification, distributed energy resources, and electric vehicles.
Speaker: Erica Larson, Senior Manager, Regulatory Affairs and Market Development of ICF
When: Tuesday, October 3rd, 10:30 AM
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For all upcoming webinars, trainings, workshops, and other educational events please visit or bookmark our calendar events page to stay up to date on our offerings! | |
Randy's Roadshow! Where I'm Heading | |
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North Texas Facilities Expo: Oct 4th– 5th (come see me at booth #325!)
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InterNACHI Houston: Oct 6th
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Southeast Texas 2021 ICC Training: Oct 10th – 13th. I'll be stopping by Pasadena, Sugar Land, Port Arthur, Beaumont, and Orange. **If you’re in the Houston area and would like to schedule a training with me that week, please email me a rplumlee@eepartnership.org and we'll be happy to your team in!
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NATEE Energy Conference: Oct 19th
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InterNACHI Waco: Oct 27th
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Become an Energy Code Ambassador | |
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SPEER's Energy Code Ambassador initiative is a dynamic and dedicated group of passionate individuals that gather monthly to address concerns and challenges related to the adoption of updating energy codes in cities across Texas with the goal of promoting and improving energy-efficient practices in our built environment.
Comprised of architects, engineers, energy consultants, environmentalists, 3rd party verifiers, and policymakers, among others, these ambassadors actively engage with local authorities, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to facilitate the successful adoption and integration of stronger building codes. If you are interested in becoming an ambassador you can learn more and apply here! Please send your application, along with any questions to SPEER's Energy Code Manager, Randy, at rplumlee@eepartnership.org. Once approved as an ambassador we will reach out with upcoming monthly calls and onboarding. Learn more about our in-person meeting on November 9th below.
We want to recognize and thank our current ambassadors!
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Izzy Rivera Jr, Princeton
Cody Wilson, Argyle
Lisa Brown, Baytown
Chris Carroll, Brownsville
Michael Gleason, Buda
Wayne Smith, Decatur
Daniel Chavira, El Paso
Johnathan Killebrew, Ft. Worth
Steven Rinehart, Harker Heights
Steve Stelzer, Houston
James Gee, Katy
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Peter Walper, Midland
Matt Squire, Princeton
Jason Vandever, San Antonio
David Morgan, Tyler
Kathy McKelvey, Weatherford
Greg Clark, Norman OK
Charles Snyder, Stillwater OK
Robert Spermo (Bob), Helotes
Jarrod Grunda, Norman OK
Jason Helm, Argyl
Scott Moody, Denison
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Texas Energy Code Compliance Collaborative Meeting | |
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SAVE THE DATE for our upcoming in-person TECCC and Energy Code Ambassador meeting on Thursday, November 9th! We will provide more information on location as the date approaches. It will be held in the central Texas Austin/Round Rock area.
Ambassador Agenda (Tentative): 9 AM - 12 PM
- Welcome and Intro’s
- SPEER Update
- SECO Update
- Local area update
- Challenges affecting state and local jurisdictions
- Top 10 issues being found
- Next meeting schedule
TECCC Agenda (Tentative): 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- Welcome and Introductions - All
- State Update - SECO/SPEER
- Regional Updates - All
- Unincorporated areas - SPEER
- New Business
- Adjourn
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The City of Houston is adopting the 2021 Construction Code. The 2021 IECC adoption would result in 10% more energy-efficient buildings and save almost 9% in energy costs to the region. The city is requesting public feedback and the final comment period is today, September 19th.
The review, adoption, and enforcement of updated building and energy codes across the state, and more importantly in Houston, will enhance efficiency in new buildings, lower energy costs for homeowners, and increase reliability and resiliency to the region’s energy grid. SPEER supports stronger, more efficient codes. Learn more.
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Interstate Renewable Energy Council Partnership | |
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What We're Reading:
The Easy Way to Switch to a Heat Pump - Energy Vanguard
This is a great read for anyone thinking of switching out their gas furnace for a heat pump. What’s discussed is using a dual-fuel AC and furnace combo. Can be useful when only the AC has gone out and the furnace is still good.
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Energy Efficiency in Texas: A New Frontier for Sustainability | |
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Texas, known for its vast landscapes and rich oil reserves, is increasingly becoming a hub for energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives. As the state grapples with the challenges of climate change, energy efficiency has emerged as a key strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and promote sustainable growth. This article explores the current landscape of energy efficiency in Texas and highlights some of the initiatives that are making a difference.
The Texas Energy Landscape
Traditionally, Texas has been a major player in the fossil fuel industry, particularly in oil and gas production. However, the state has also been making strides in the renewable energy sector, notably in wind and solar power. Texas leads the nation in wind energy production and is rapidly expanding its solar energy capabilities. This diversification sets the stage for greater energy efficiency across the board.
Energy Efficiency Programs PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy)
One of the most successful programs in Texas is the PACE program, which provides financing for commercial, industrial, and residential property owners to implement energy-efficient improvements. The program allows property owners to repay the costs over time through property assessments, making it financially feasible to invest in energy-efficient technologies.
Utility-Led Initiatives
Many utilities in Texas offer rebate and incentives for consumers who invest in energy-efficient appliances and home improvements. These programs not only help consumers save money but also reduce the overall demand on the energy grid.
Building Codes
Texas has adopted the IECC, which sets energy efficiency standards for new residential and commercial buildings. These codes are designed to reduce energy consumption and promote the use of energy-efficient materials and technologies.
Economic Benefits
Investing in energy efficiency not only helps the environment but also stimulates economic growth. According to a report by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), energy efficiency could potentially create thousands of jobs in Texas, ranging from construction to engineering and project management.
Future Outlook
With the growing awareness of climate change and its impact, Texas is poised to be a leader in energy efficiency. The state government is increasingly supportive of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, and there is a growing trend among businesses and homeowners to adopt sustainable practices.
Conclusion
Energy efficiency in Texas is more than just a buzzword; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. Through various programs and initiatives, the state is making significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint and promoting economic growth. As Texas continues to evolve, energy efficiency will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the state’s energy landscape for years to come.
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Is there something specific you would like us to dive deeper on? Are there topics that we have not addressed or questions that we can clarify and provide more insight on during a webinar or training? Please provide input on our request form so that we can better tailor building code and efficiency topics for upcoming webinars and training.
SPEER is also seeking esteemed speakers and individuals with a passion for knowledge sharing. If you are or know an an Energy Conservation Code expert or related topic and would like to present on our energy codes webinars please constant us!
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