Federal Funding Workshop + Happy Hour: May 25th

Billions of federal dollars will be allocated to states for the deployment and upgrading of weatherization and energy efficiency resources. The passage of both the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will have a huge impact on the energy market, disadvantaged communities, buildings + energy code improvements, benefits to businesses and homeowners for owning energy assets, the economy and much more. 

Don't miss this event! Register now for our free networking happy hour + panel session as our expert speakers from the Department of Energy, the State Energy Conservation Office, Ameresco, and SPEER dive into how to apply for these funds, the expected flow of funds and timeframes, what is included in the bill, and ways to improve our environment, building comfort, resiliency, and lower utility bills.

Update on Stucco

When: 9:30 AM Thursday, May 23rd 

Jeff Adams from Adams Home Inspections has spent years in the field and has seen lots of issues with Stucco applications. Jeff will provide us with an update on what he’s seeing and what needs to change in the best practices when using stucco in today’s construction.

Advanced Framing Techniques: Enhancing Energy Efficiency in new construction  

When: 11:00 AM Friday, June 2nd

In this presentation, we will look at simple but effective advanced framing techniques that any production builder can easily implement. From two-stud corners, ladder blocking, insulated headers, and 24-inch on-center, we’ll look at real-world examples of how advanced framing can optimize material usage, reduce waste, and improve the thermal efficiency of today’s new construction homes.

Understanding Table R402.4.1.1: A Deep Dive into Building Thermal Envelope Requirements

When: 11:00 AM Thursday, June 22nd

This comprehensive presentation is centered around Table R402.4.1.1 of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), an important resource for understanding the insulation and fenestration requirements, as well as the sealing methodology for constructing energy-efficient buildings.

Free Training For Builders & Inspectors: Edmond, Oklahoma

Come join us on June 7th for on-the-job training of an energy inspection for the 2018 IECC. During this training event, we will take you in the field with a walk-through to study different phases of construction and discuss what is needed for compliance with the Energy Code.

 Download the training flyer.

Free Oklahoma HVAC & Weatherization Training

Building codes are important for energy and cost savings, building and occupant health + comfort, emission reduction, and numerous more benefits. We're excited to announce that SPEER is partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) to offer free weatherization and HVAC training on

June 8-9.

 Learn more and register here.

Invitation to CELC Energy Training Cohort

The objective of our City Efficiency Leadership Council (CELCcohort is to understand local government training gaps, particularly what subject matter is essential for the workforce to have a base knowledge. The cohort will have several phases through five facilitated meetings from landscape analysis of training needs, module identification, platform identification, and alignment with a continuing education accreditation organization. The cohort will focus on scalability in mind for other local governments in mid-size communities. Email [email protected] with your interest deadline to apply is 5/30.

As we stand at the crossroads of environmental challenges and technological breakthroughs, the role of energy efficiency in the housing sector has never been more critical. It’s a key player in the fight against climate change, a vital driver for cost savings, and an essential factor in creating healthy, comfortable living environments. In particular, the incorporation of energy-efficient strategies in new construction homes presents a unique opportunity to redefine the way we live and the legacy we leave behind.

When we talk about new construction homes, it’s not just about brick, mortar, or aesthetic appeal. It’s about building a sustainable future, quite literally from the ground up. From the way the building envelope is designed, to the materials used to the system installed for heating, cooling, and lighting – every decision can significantly influence the home’s overall energy efficiency.

The IECC has been instrumental in guiding the construction industry towards more sustainable practices. Table R402.4.1.1 outlines building thermal envelope requirements. These standards are essential in constructing homes that are resilient, sustainable, and energy efficient. But the goal isn’t merely to meet minimum standards. Leading-edge builders and designers are pushing the envelope, incorporating advanced framing techniques, high-performance HVAC systems, and renewable energy sources, among other strategies, to create homes that are net-zero or even net-positive in terms of energy consumption. These homes not only consume less energy but can also generate their own, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

The benefits of energy-efficient new construction homes extend beyond the environmental impact. For homeowners, these homes can offer substantial cost savings in terms of reduced utility bills. They also provide a healthier indoor environment, with better air quality and more consistent temperatures. The path to energy efficiency in new construction homes is not without its challenges. It requires a shift in mindset, investment in new technologies and materials, and a commitment to ongoing innovation. But the potential rewards – for homeowners, for the construction industry, and for the planet – are enormous.



As we move forward, let’s remember that every new home built is an opportunity – an opportunity to conserve resources, reduce emissions, and create a more sustainable and resilient future. It’s an opportunity we can’t afford to miss.

What We're Reading:

Is Venting an Unconditioned Attic Necessary? - Energy Vanguard

This article digs into the building science behind the code requirement of venting our unconditioned attics. Venting hot air to the outside sounds like a great solution, but if the wrong equipment or material is used you could be creating an even greater problem and could potentially be wasting more energy than what you’re saving by venting our hot attics. I experienced this first hand on my personal house before I knew more about proper air-flow balancing in the attic is almost as important as air-sealing in a house.