REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio, Nov 07, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The Ohio Board of Building Standards heard opposing arguments on whether to adopt a single energy efficiency code based on the nation's model energy code, or allow multiple standards as proposed by special interest groups.

The Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) provided compelling testimony in support of unifying Ohio's energy codes for residential new construction under a widely accepted single standard: the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), the nation's model energy code. Versions of the IECC are in effect in over 40 states and it alone is referenced in the U.S. Code (federal law), federal regulations, the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, and many other state and federal programs.

MEEAs testimony was in opposition to Amendment 6, which supported allowing three, separate codes. MEEA argued that multiple standards would lead to less energy efficiency, diminishing energy savings for Ohio consumers and creating additional costs for the State. Multiple standards would also discourage the development and adoption of energy-efficient technologies, potentially dampen economic development and release unnecessary pollutants into the environment. Approval of the Amendment 6 proposal would also make it more difficult to achieve the energy savings of Ohio Senate Bill 221, signed into law by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland in May 2008 requiring Ohio electric utilities to implement energy efficiency programs.

"The presence of several compliance options would allow some builders and designers to 'game' the building code system to build less efficient buildings," noted Wendy Jaehn, Executive Director, MEEA. "The availability of three different compliance options increases training costs for code officials, makes enforcement of the code more difficult for building inspectors and complicates future building code revisions."

Another provision of the Amendment 6 would shift 27 Ohio counties into a different "climate zone," thus lowering the energy efficiency standards for 30 percent of Ohio residents, contrary to the zones established by the U.S. Department of Energy. Climate zones are geographic divisions that help determine what energy-efficient measures are most effective relative to the local climate. Currently, homes use 20% of energy consumed in the US. Increased efficiency standards for new homes would provide consumers with an average of more than $500 in energy savings each year.

Benefits of Energy Efficiency

Lower energy prices. Energy efficiency decreases, or dampens increases in, energy prices. Lower demand for electricity and natural gas places downward pressure on the price of those commodities. According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), a reduction of about 1 percent per year in total gas demand could result in wholesale natural gas price reductions of 10 to 20 percent.

Greater economic development. In September 2008, Ohio's unemployment rate was 7.2 percent, 8th highest in the nation. The ACEEE estimates that, for every $1 million invested in energy efficiency, 24 net new jobs are created. Additionally, the development and market introduction of energy efficient technologies stimulates innovation and economic growth. A single code under IECC would encourage manufacturers to focus on energy-efficient products. Reduced environmental pollutants. Using less energy lowers emission of greenhouse gases and other pollutants emitted by power plants and the combustion of natural gas, thus improving air quality, combating global climate change and protecting human health and the environment.

About MEEA -- The Source on Energy Efficiency

The Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) ( http://www.mwalliance.org) is a collaborative network advancing energy efficiency in the Midwest to support sustainable economic development and environmental preservation. In our 13-state region, MEEA drives the adoption of sound energy policy, promotes and pilots emerging technologies and facilitates program best practices. MEEA bridges the gap between policy adoption and program implementation.

Energy efficiency is the critical first resource in meeting our nation's growing energy needs, given its proven technologies, ease of implementation, low entry costs and fast return on investment. Increased efficiency also leads to greater economic benefits, including larger state domestic budgets and household incomes and increased job growth. Through our diverse network of members and allies, MEEA possesses the experience and vision to foster positive change today and assist in realizing the region's efficiency goals for the future.

Source: http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/Millions-Dollars-Energy-Savings-Hinges/story.aspx?guid=%7B349404B7-BA76-430E-9481-6997B2045FB0%7D