Builders will face energy standards in Mesa

Builders will face energy standards in MesaWith sustainability a key ingredient in its overall strategy for Mesa, the City Council is looking for ways to protect the environment. Last week the council took another step in that direction by agreeing in principle to impose stricter energy standards on new construction. WHAT IS AN ENERGY CODE? It's a set of standards adopted by the International Code Council, which also issues codes for electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems. It governs the energy efficiency of building "envelopes" - essentially the walls, roof and windows that separate the interior and exterior environments. It also covers lighting, heating and cooling systems, and water heaters. The standards would apply to new construction and to pertinent upgrades of existing buildings. It would not, for example, require you to add insulation if you're installing a new air-conditioner, but the air-conditioner would have to comply with code. The codes are updated every three years; the 2012 code is expected to be released this fall. The council unanimously endorsed the 2009 code, echoing the recommendation of a council committee that considered the issue in March. Councilman Dave Richins noted that most Valley cities have adopted the 2006 code, but said Mesa could show regional leadership - another of the council's strategic goals - by approving the more stringent 2009 rules.

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