By Dragana Thibault | Wed, October 30, 24
As we work to enhance energy efficiency and improve the quality of life in our communities, the importance of modern energy codes has never been more apparent. But without strong implementation and enforcement strategies, communities across the region are denied the benefits of newly adopted energy codes.
NEEP is leading a new project aimed at strengthening energy code compliance across Pennsylvania and Delaware. Supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (US DOE) and in partnership with Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), and Performance Systems Development (PSD), this project will support new energy code compliance field studies to create a training roadmap for improving code enforcement and building a skilled workforce in both states. To support the initiative, NEEP issued a request for proposals (RFP) for an energy code consultant, referred to as a circuit rider, that will provide on-site training, education, and technical assistance and support to building departments, building officials, builders, design and construction professionals, and other industry professionals in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
This project focuses on three key goals:
- Conduct Field Studies: In Pennsylvania, we will conduct energy code field studies targeting single-family residential, multifamily, and commercial buildings to provide a baseline across high impact energy code measures to inform future state and local education and training programs. In Delaware, our focus will be on single-family homes.
- Overlay an Equity Lens: In addition to following traditional US DOE data collection methodologies, we will conduct an equity study to learn if and how compliance rates are correlated to metrics that track underserved communities. This will inform future state-led outreach and training efforts.
- Create a Training Roadmap: The insights gained from these studies will help NEEP develop a customized training roadmap for each state. These roadmaps will guide states to develop targeted and customized education and training programs aimed at improving energy code compliance.
The field studies will help us pinpoint areas with significant energy savings potential, while also highlighting compliance challenges that must be addressed. Improved adherence to energy codes not only promises financial savings for homeowners but also offers environmental benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved community health. By boosting compliance and enhancing workforce knowledge, we expect energy, cost, and emission reductions across both states.
Throughout the project, we will help communities understand the importance of energy codes and their requirements, setting Pennsylvania and Delaware on a path for long-term success that will extend beyond the project's conclusion.
The Role of the Circuit Rider
To help advance this initiative, we are seeking a circuit rider, an individual or organization with expertise in interpreting energy codes and ensuring proper implementation that expands capacity and improves understanding of codes. A circuit rider is essential in supporting communities across Pennsylvania and Delaware, actively engaging with builders, code officials, and other stakeholders to foster collaboration and learning and to increase code compliance. The circuit rider will foster open communication and build trust among stakeholders. This expert will translate technical aspects of energy codes into practical, actionable steps to ensure that stakeholders have the knowledge and resources they need to succeed.
The circuit rider will provide direct, individualized support to code officials, homebuilders, subcontractors, and other energy code stakeholders by offering education and training on specific energy code issues for single-family, multifamily, and commercial buildings. The circuit rider will establish phone and email hotlines to answer technical questions related to energy codes, including the 2018 and 2021 International Energy Conservation Codes (IECC).
Why This Project Matters
This project goes beyond numbers and statistics. It is about making a lasting, meaningful impact directly in the homes and buildings of Pennsylvania and Delaware communities. By focusing on educating the energy code workforce and engaging underserved populations, we aim to alleviate energy burden and ensure more equitable access to resources. The data we gather will inform future outreach and training, leading to an educated energy code workforce, better health outcomes for building occupants, and greater resilience for entire communities.
Help Us Spread the Word
We encourage interested individuals and organizations to apply for the circuit rider role through our RFP. This multi-year project is expected to conclude in February 2027. For more information about the circuit rider position and to access the RFP, click here.