Report Title:

Model Energy Code

Description:

Specifies that residential buildings built after 07/01/04 shall include R-19 (or equivalent) roof insulation and ceiling fan wiring.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

H.B. NO.

855

TWENTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2003

 

STATE OF HAWAII

 


 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

RELATING TO ENERGY CONSERVATION.

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that the development, management, efficient consumption, and conservation of residential energy resources are of prime importance throughout Hawaii. Energy is a key factor shaping Hawaii's economy, environment, and standard of living. In 1997, isle residents and businesses spent about $2,760,000,000 on energy, or eight per cent of the $34,000,000,000 gross state product. This amounts to $2,139 per capita, or 8.2 per cent of Hawaii's average per capita annual income. Hawaii residents paid the fifth highest overall energy prices in the nation in 1995, thirty-three per cent higher than the national average. Moreover, Hawaii ranked third highest in electricity prices, thirty-four per cent above the national average.

Some implications of Hawaii's energy situation are not as obvious as direct energy costs. Hawaii depends on oil for eighty-eight per cent of its energy, more than any other state. World oil supplies are finite and prices are subject to sudden, extreme fluctuations which can threaten the health of Hawaii's economy. Oil endangers Hawaii's fragile environment more than most other fuels. Dollars spent for imported energy leave the islands and are not available to the local economy.

While the State has long recognized its dependence on oil and the need to diversify its energy base, and much progress has been made, more constructive steps need to be taken. When reductions in energy use are accomplished through increases in efficiency, the economy may continue to expand. In order to provide a stable foundation for Hawaii's economy, diversification of energy supplies and a continued emphasis on efficiency of energy use are essential.

The legislature finds that one way to increase energy efficiency is to require the R-19 (or equivalent) roof insulation standards for residential buildings to apply to all new residential real property. R-19 (or equivalent) is language that has long been in place in Hawaii's commercial-building Model Energy Code and is readily recognized by the building community. Studies have shown that a value of less than R-19 allows too much heat to penetrate into homes, and a value greater than R-19 would not be cost-effective. The flexibility of Hawaii's Model Energy Code in achieving R-19 (or equivalent) means that designers and builders are free to choose the most appropriate and least expensive method of meeting the requirement.

The underlying intent is to save energy in buildings. Since increases in oil prices can quickly and dramatically impact the State's economy, it is sound public policy to encourage the design of the most efficient buildings possible. While this measure stops short of requiring the most efficient design possible, it does require a minimum level of energy efficiency that is easily cost effective in all sectors of the economy.

The legislature finds that the overall cost savings that could be achieved through the implementation of this measure outweighs the additional up front charges in building materials that would be required.

SECTION 2. Section 46-19.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:

"(a) Energy efficiency building standards based on the design requirements for improvements of energy utilization in buildings developed and approved by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Incorporated (ASHRAE 90.1), shall be incorporated by each county into its building code by October 24, 1994. The standards shall apply to all buildings, including state buildings; provided that [the]:

(1) The standards for renovated buildings shall only apply to the renovated system or elements of the building[.]; and

(2) The standards for residential buildings shall apply to all residential buildings built after July 1, 2004. As used in this paragraph, "residential buildings" means multifamily dwelling units of three stories or fewer of habitable space above grade as well as all single and two family dwellings. Residential building standards shall include R-19 (or equivalent) roof insulation, and ceiling fan wiring in living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens."

SECTION 3. Statutory material to be repealed is bracketed and stricken. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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