The Policy Evolution

Building energy policy has evolved from reactive crisis management to proactive climate strategy. What began as voluntary efficiency guidelines in the 1970s has transformed into comprehensive decarbonization mandates covering new construction, existing buildings, and embodied carbon. Today, over 30 U.S. cities have binding performance standards requiring existing buildings to reduce emissions 40-80% by 2030-2050.

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Model Codes

IECC, ASHRAE 90.1 set baseline requirements updated every 3 years, adopted by states/cities

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Local Laws

Cities enact aggressive mandates (NYC LL97, DC BEPS) targeting existing building portfolios

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Incentives

Tax credits, rebates, grants (IRA §179D, §45L) offset compliance costs and accelerate adoption

Interactive Policy Timeline

Explore 50+ years of building policy evolution - click each era to see landmark policies

Policy Maturity:

10%

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Energy Crisis Response

1970s

Oil embargo sparked first wave of building energy standards

Landmark Policies

1975

Standard

ASHRAE 90-75

First national energy standard

1978

Legislation

National Energy Act

Federal energy conservation mandates

✓ Achievements

•Basic insulation requirements
•HVAC efficiency guidelines
•Lighting power limits

⚠ Limitations

Voluntary compliance, minimal enforcement

Building Policy & Regulation

Your Progress