Seattle DPD Energy Code and Conservation Advisor

As many of you know, John Hogan has retired from the City of Seattle DPD. He forwarded the following email regarding his replacement as the Energy Code and Conservation Adviser:

Below is an announcement from Jon Siu that I’m forwarding.

-          DPD will provide an e-mail address and telephone number for Duane when those are determined in January.

John (Hogan)

*************

DPD is very pleased to announce that we’ve hired Duane Jonlin to fill the position of Energy Code and Conservation Advisor.   This position (previously filled by the now-retired John Hogan) is responsible for helping formulate the City’s policies regarding the energy code, developing the Seattle Energy Code, and influencing the direction of the national energy codes.  

Duane is a licensed architect and (now former) principal at NBBJ Architects here in Seattle, where for the past 14-plus years his job has been to oversee the program that ensures the projects designed by the firm comply with the construction codes.  In coming to DPD, Duane knows his focus will be much more limited than his previous job, but he also knows there is a lot to be done in the energy code arena, and wants to make a difference, not just for now but also for the future.  From talking with Duane, we believe he brings a passion for this work with him, plus a great balance of vision and practicality—he wants to advance the code, yet also wants to make sure what is in the code will actually work, and brings plenty of ideas as to how to make that happen.

We’re very excited to have such a high-quality candidate in Duane joining us.  His first day with DPD will be January 4.

Welcome, Duane!

2009 Seattle Energy Code - AHRI Certification

The 2009 Seattle Energy Code (and Washington State Energy Code), Section 1411.1, last sentence of the first paragraph, requires that products covered under Tables 14-1A through 14-1G be listed in a nationally recognized certification program.  Tables 14-1A(3) and 14-1A(4) specify minimum equipment efficiencies for VRF equipment and cite AHRI Standard 1230 as the test procedure. 

  

- Per the article below, the AHRI certification program for variable refrigerant flow (VRF) equipment is now underway for products covered under AHRI Standard 1230. 

- Consequently, permit applications that include VRF equipment need to demonstrate that the VRF equipment has AHRI certification (e.g. VRF equipment efficiency needs to be determined in accordance with AHRI Standard 1230 and certified in the AHRI Certification Program, etc.).

John Hogan

September 20, 2011AHRI Launches 37th Certification Program: Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) AHRI has launched a new certification program for Variable Refrigerant Flow Multi-Split Air-Conditioners and Heat Pumps (VRF). This is AHRI's 37th certification program. The equipment in the VRF program are rated and tested in accordance with AHRI Standard 1230, Performance Rating of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Multi-Split Air-Conditioning and Heat Pump Equipment.  Systems sized under 65MBH are currently certified to AHRI Standard 210/240. "As VRFs are gaining popularity in the United States, launching this new certification program is timely," said Bill Tritsis, AHRI Vice President, Certification. "Having a VRF program will provide the assurance that manufacturers' performance ratings for the equipment have been independently verified, which will likely increase awareness of these products within the United States."   This certification program: Covers matched variable refrigerant flow multi-split air-conditioner and multi-split heat pump systems that comply with either the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act (NAECA) or the Energy Policy Act (EPACT), and use distributed refrigerant technology with cooling and heating capacities for outdoor units from 12,000 Btu/h [3508 W] to 300,000 Btu/h [87,692 W] and indoor units from 5,000 Btu/h [1,462 W] to 60,000 Btu/h [17,538 W]. Each indoor unit is designed to condition a single zone.   Applies to variable refrigerant flow multi-split systems consisting of the following matched components: a) an outdoor unit with single or multiple compressors or variable capacity compressor or with a variable speed drive; b) indoor unit(s) that have a coil, air movement device intended for single zone air distribution, and a temperature sensing control; and c) a zone temperature control device.   Covers VRF multi-split systems and heat recovery VRF multi-split systems covered in AHRI Standard 1230. Included are multi-split, matched system air-conditioners and heat pumps irrespective of their type of electric power source, or secondary fluid (e.g. air-to-air or water-to-air). There are currently five participants in the program: Carrier, Daikin, LG Electronics, Mitsubishi, and Sanyo. Testing will be conducted at Intertek's testing facility in Plano, Tex.  Performance data for certified products can be found in the AHRI Directory of Certified Product Performance (www.ahridirectory.org). Manufacturers interested in joining the VRF certification program may contact AHRI Certification Engineer Jon Lemmond.          2111 Wilson Blvd., Suite 500 Arlington, VA 22201-3001 USA www.ahrinet.org www.ahridirectory.org Main Office 703-524-8800

2009 Seattle Energy Code - Chapter 16

2009 Seattle Energy Code: Chapter 16, On-Site Renewable Energy Systems, now in effect

Chapter 16, On-Site Renewable Energy Systems, of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code is now in effect. http://buildingconnections.seattle.gov/2011/08/01/2009-seattle-energy-code-chapter-16-on-site-renewable-energy-systems-now-in-effect/

• DR 11-2011 (Alternate Means of Compliance to Energy Code Requirements for On-Site Renewable Energy Systems) has been published, so per Section 1601 of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code, Chapter 16 is now in effect.


• Consequently, all permit applications submitted on 14 July 2011 or later must comply with Chapter 16 of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code.


• Attached is a copy of Director's Rule 11-2011 (DR 2011-11.docx).


• Copies can also be downloaded from the link on the Seattle Energy Code website at http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/dr_summary.asp

Also several updates have been made to the Seattle Energy Code website:

• The previous versions of the Seattle Energy Code dating back to the year 2000 have now been posted on the Seattle Energy Code website. These earlier versions can all be downloaded from the Seattle Energy Code History page which is accessed from the right hand navigation tab on the Seattle Energy Code homepage at: http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/history.asp.


• The single-family residential tips and the multifamily and nonresidential tips have been revised for consistency with the 2009 Seattle Energy Code. These can be accessed from the right hand navigation tab on the Seattle Energy Code homepage.

Seattle Energy Code Update - September 2011

One item has been posted on the Seattle Energy Code website for download within the last month. This can be accessed from the right hand navigation tab on the Seattle Energy Code homepage:

- The electronic version of the Building Envelope form (2009sec-ENG.xls, 727 KB) has been updated to correct the formula in cell F9 of the ENV-VT worksheet. If you previously downloaded this form, please replace it with the one now posted on the Nonresidential and Multifamily Residential Forms page:http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/forms_non.asp

A reminder that, when using the Component Performance option for the Building Envelope in nonresidential and multifamily residential spaces:

1. Compliance must be calculated separately for the building envelope for nonresidential spaces and for multifamily residential spaces.

2. For multifamily residential spaces, compliance must be shown for

a. Target UA, AND
b. Target SHGCA (where there are skylights).

3. For nonresidential spaces, compliance must be shown for

a. Target UA, AND
b. Target SHGCA, AND
c. Target VTA (when the fenestration area exceeds 30%).

Consequently, when using the electronic versions of the compliance forms, multiple worksheets need to be completed.

For Energy Code questions, please contact Shailesh Desai at shailesh.desai@seattle.gov or 206-233-7860.

Thanks,
John


John Hogan, AIA, P.E.
LEED Accredited Professional
Seattle Department of Planning & Development (DPD)
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
P.O. Box 34019
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
(john.hogan@seattle.gov)

voice: 206-386-9145
fax: 206-386-4039

Seattle Energy Code website:
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy/

NEEA - Better Bricks - City of Seattle

August 3, 2011

Energy Star Portfolio Manager Training

NEEA BetterBricks and the City of Seattle offer this FREE workshop for building owners, property managers and service providers to support compliance with the City of Seattle’s building energy benchmarking and disclosure ordinance. This hands-on session will teach you how to benchmark your building’s energy performance using the free on-line tool ENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager. Participants will also learn about the ordinance reporting requirements and new services available for automated benchmarking from Seattle City Light, Puget Sound Energy and Seattle Steam. Registration required.

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
University of Washington
Mary Gates Hall, Room 044
Seattle, WA

2009 Seattle Energy Code Update

The 2009 Seattle Energy Code (and Washington State Energy Code), Section 1411.1, last sentence of the first paragraph, requires that products covered under Tables 14-1A through 14-1G be listed in a nationally recognized certification program. Tables 14-1A(3) and 14-1A(4) specify minimum equipment efficiencies for VRF equipment and cite AHRI Standard 1230 as the test procedure.

- Per AHRI, the AHRI certification program for variable refrigerant flow (VRF) equipment is now underway for products covered under AHRI Standard 1230.

- Consequently, permit applications that include VRF equipment need to demonstrate that the VRF equipment has AHRI certification (e.g. VRF equipment efficiency needs to be determined in accordance with AHRI Standard 1230 and certified in the AHRI Certification Program, etc.).

John Hogan
Seattle Department of Planning & Development
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
john.hogan@seattle.gov

2009 Seattle Energy Code - draft Director's Rule

Attached (actually click on the image below to go to a pdf copy) is a DRAFT of Director's Rule 11-2011, Alternate Means of Compliance to Energy Code Requirements for On-Site Renewable Energy Systems (DR2011-11, 2011-04-20 draft.docx).

• Please provide any comments to me by 28 April 2011.
  

Background for Directors Rule 11-2011

• Chapter 16, On-Site Renewable Energy Systems, of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code was adopted with a condition for implementation. Section 1601 requires that Chapter 16 is to take effect when a Directors Rule is published that provides alternate means of compliance. Section 1631 then contains more specific guidance. (The text from Section 1631 is included at the beginning of the draft Directors Rule.)


• The draft rule provides two alternate means of compliance.


• Note that the two alternate means of compliance contained in the attached draft Directors Rule were discussed during the public review last year. Further, CCAB previously endorsed these two alternates as part of the overall 2009 Seattle Energy Code package.
  

Thanks,
John

John Hogan, AIA, P.E.
LEED Accredited Professional
Seattle Department of Planning & Development (DPD)
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
P.O. Box 34019
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
(john.hogan@seattle.gov)

voice: 206-386-9145
fax: 206-386-4039

Seattle Energy Code website:
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy/

Seattle Energy Code website

A number of items have been posted on the Seattle Energy Code website for download within the last month. These can all be accessed from the right hand navigation tab on the Seattle Energy Code homepage:

Residential handouts and forms, posted at:
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/forms_res.asp

• Handout on New and Replacement Heating Equipment: Single-Family Residential Requirements in the 2009 Energy Code:
  Provides an overview of key requirements for (1) minimum heating equipment efficiency, (2) heating equipment sizing, (3) duct testing for air leakage, (4) permanent Energy Code certificate, and (5) other associated components.
  
• Heating Equipment Sizing Form (Single-Family and Multifamily Residential): Provides a simple form for calculating loads to size heating equipment. This form is tailored to the Seattle winter design temperature of 24 F (the 46 degree temperature difference used equals 70 F inside minus 24 F outside).
  
• Single-Family Residential Target UA Form: Provides an alternate compliance option for projects which do not comply with the prescriptive requirements.
  
• Single-Family Residential Lighting Form: Provides a calculation of what percentage of the luminaires (light fixtures) are high-efficacy.
  
• Single-Family Residential Certificate for Posting Energy Code Information at Building Site: Provides a blank master for Energy Code information to be posted at the building site
  

Nonresidential and Multifamily Residential form, posted at:
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/forms_non.asp

• The electronic version of the Building Envelop Target UA/SHGCA/VTA form (2009sec-ENV.xls, 756 KB) has been updated to correct several formatting and formula issues. If you previously downloaded this form, please replace it with this newer version.
  
• The electronic version of the Mechanical form (2009sec-MECH.xls, 597 KB) has been updated to unlock the date cell. If you previously downloaded this form, please replace it with this newer version.

Hard-copies of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code are now available for purchase at the DPD Applicant Services Center on the 20th floor of the Seattle Municipal Tower. An electronic version (pdf) of the entire 2009 Seattle Energy Code (2 MB) is posted and linked from the 2009 Seattle Energy Code update page:
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/2009_ecupdate.asp

Work is underway to update the Seattle Energy Code website, CAMs, and Director’s Rules. See the “2009 Seattle Energy Code Update” link in the upper right hand corner of the Seattle Energy Code homepage: www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy . New material will be posted as it becomes available.

John Hogan, AIA, P.E.,LEED Accredited Professional
Seattle Department of Planning & Development (DPD)
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
P.O. Box 34019
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
(john.hogan@seattle.gov)
voice: 206-386-9145
fax: 206-386-4039

Seattle Energy Code website:
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy/

Seattle Energy Code Website

Several items have been posted on the Seattle Energy Code website for download within the last month. These can all be accessed from the right hand navigation tab on the Seattle Energy Code homepage:

- A pdf version of the entire 2009 Seattle Energy Code (2 MB) is posted and linked from the 2009 Seattle Energy Code update page:
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/2009_ecupdate.asp

- The electronic version of the Lighting Summary form (2009sec-LTG.xls, 430 KB)has been updated to correct a minor issue in one cell. If you previously downloaded this form, please replace it with the one now posted on the Nonresidential and Multifamily Residential Forms page:
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/forms_non.asp

- The 2009 Seattle EnvStd (7 MB) is now available for download from the Seattle EnvStd page:
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/Seattle_ENVSTD.asp

Work is underway to update the Seattle Energy Code website, single-family compliance forms, CAMs and Director’s Rules. See the “2009 Seattle Energy Code Update” link in the upper right hand corner of the Seattle Energy Code homepage: www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy . New material will be posted as it becomes available.

John Hogan, AIA, P.E.
LEED Accredited Professional
Seattle Department of Planning & Development (DPD)
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
P.O. Box 34019
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
(john.hogan@seattle.gov)

Learn Key Changes in the 2009 International Building Code

Contact: Stephanie Pure, (206) 448-4938 ext. 103, stephaniep@aiaseattle.org

AIA Seattle course includes information on newly-adopted, significant amendments by the State of Washington and City of Seattle.

Seattle—AIA Seattle, a Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, is offering a four-hour educational course on key changes to the 2009 International Building Code (IBC), including information on use & occupancy, high-rise, incidental use, fire and smoke protection features, and means of egress. The course is presented by Thomas Kinsman, PE of T.A. Kinsman Consulting Company.

Key Changes in the 2009 International Building Code
Tuesday January 25, 2011
8:00AM-Noon
Mountaineers Program Center, 7700 Sand Point Way NE, (Located inside Warren G. Magnuson Park)

Cost: $80 AIA Members/Government
$125 Non-Members
$45 Associates
$25 Students w/ student ID

To register, visit: www.aiaseattle.org/node/5076

A limited number of scholarships are available to AIA Seattle members in good standing. To apply, please download and return the application form on the registration page. Questions? Contact Danielle Henderson for more information.

AIA Seattle, an AIA Continuing Education System (CES) Provider, has applied for AIA Learning Units for this course, estimated at 3.5 LU/HSW/SD.

After attending this course, participants will be able to interpret the new:

• High-rise provisions (such as structural integrity of shaft walls assemblies, SFRM fire proofing, emergency responder radio coverage, smoke removal, stair enclosure separation, 3rd stairway in super high-rises, self evacuation elevators, fire service elevators, and luminous path markings)
• Incidental use provisions
• Special occupancy provisions (such as ambulatory care facilities and live-work dwelling units)
• Smoke and fire protection provisions (such as marking rated wall separations, projections, exterior wall exposure, fire wall intersections with the exterior wall, shaft enclosure exceptions, and curtain wall / floor assembly intersections)
• Means of egress provisions (such as required egress width factors; accessible means of egress exceptions, special locking of exit doors, unenclosed required exit access stairways, stairway detail exceptions, stair to roof requirements, guards, dead end corridors, and single exit buildings)

Thomas Kinsman, PE is Principal of T.A. Kinsman Consulting Company which serves architects, developers, building owners, and attorneys on matters relating to both the technical and procedural aspects of the building code regulation, and includes providing ICC code training sessions to AIA, government agencies, and architectural firms. In 2000, he retired from a 30 year career with the City of Seattle, 24 years of which was in successively more responsible positions relating to construction code permitting and regulation. He has been active for many years in local, regional, and national code development. Tom has taught building code classes at the University of Washington and has served on the State Building Code Council. He is an Honorary Member of AIA Seattle.

About the Seattle Chapter of the American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1894, AIA Seattle is a not-for-profit professional association of architects, allied professionals, and laypeople. AIA Seattle provides the architecture community with resources and relationships to make a difference through design. We open doors, provide connections, keep our members and the public informed, and demonstrate our commitment to great design as the key ingredient for livable, sustainable places.

###

2009 Seattle Energy Code - Now in effect

The 2009 Energy Code requirements for residential spaces will take effect statewide on 1 January 2011. (The 2009 Seattle Energy Code requirements for nonresidential spaces took effect on 23 November 2010.) For determining the 2009 Seattle Energy Code requirements, you need to look at both the 2009 Washington State Energy Code and the Seattle ordinance. Wherever the Seattle ordinance contains modifications to a section, the ordinance language supersedes the 2009 Washington State Energy Code. There is no one document at this point that folds all the text together.

Updated versions of the electronic compliance forms for nonresidential and multifamily residential spaces are now posted on the Seattle Energy Code website. Work is underway to prepare code insert pages with the Seattle amendments, and to update the Seattle Energy Code website, single-family compliance forms, CAMs and Director’s Rules. See the “2009 Seattle Energy Code Update” link in the upper right hand corner of the Seattle Energy Code homepage: www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy . New material will be posted as it becomes available.

John Hogan, AIA, P.E.
LEED Accredited Professional
Seattle Department of Planning & Development (DPD)
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
P.O. Box 34019
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
(john.hogan@seattle.gov)

voice: 206-386-9145
fax: 206-386-4039

Seattle Energy Code website:
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy/

2009 Seattle Energy Code

2009 Seattle Energy Code takes effect today for nonresidential spaces

The 2009 Seattle Energy Code is now in effect for nonresidential spaces. The revised requirements for residential spaces will take effect on 1 January 2011. For determining the 2009 Seattle Energy Code requirements, you need to look at both the 2009 Washington State Energy Code and the Seattle ordinance. Wherever the Seattle ordinance contains modifications to a section, the ordinance language supersedes the 2009 Washington State Energy Code. There is no one document at this point that folds all the text together.

Work is underway to prepare code insert pages with the Seattle amendments, and to update the Seattle Energy Code website, compliance forms, CAMs and Director’s Rules. See the “2009 Seattle Energy Code Update” link in the upper right hand corner of the Seattle Energy Code homepage: www.seattle.gov/dpd/energy . New material will be posted as it becomes available. DPD will schedule public training sessions after the updated materials are available.

John Hogan, AIA, P.E., LEED Accredited Professional
Seattle Department of Planning & Development (DPD)
700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
P.O. Box 34019
Seattle, WA 98124-4019
(john.hogan@seattle.gov)

voice: 206-386-9145
fax: 206-386-4039

2009 WSEC Implementation Date

WA State Building Code Council Sets 2009 WSEC Implementation Date

The Washington SBCC has set January 1, 2011 as the implementation date for the 2009 Washington State Energy Code. The new code was originally set for implementation on July 1st this year but was delayed at the request of Governor Chris Gregoire. Projects permitted after this date will be covered by the new code. NEEC has an electronic copy of the 2009 WSEC on its web site ( http://www.neec.net/energy-codes ) for free download as well as updated compliance forms for the 2009 version. Code trainings are also being sponsored by NEEC (current series underway) with more expected in early 2011. In addition, the Seattle Energy Code has been approved by the Seattle City Council this month. The following information is courtesy of John Hogan at Seattle DPD;

The 2009 Seattle Energy Code, as recommended by the Mayor, has now been approved by the City Council:

• The Seattle City Council's Committee on the Built Environment took up the 2009 Seattle Energy Code ordinance at a meeting last week and recommended approval. The 2009 Seattle Energy Code ordinance was then considered and approved by the full Seattle City Council on Monday of this week. We are now awaiting the Mayor's signature, expected very shortly.
• The ordinance can be downloaded under the "2009 Seattle Energy Code Update" link in the upper right hand corner of the Seattle Energy Code homepage. The ordinance adopts the 2009 Washington State Energy Code by reference and then contains the multiple Seattle amendments. So, in order to have the entire code, you need to look at both the 2009 Washington State Energy Code and the Seattle ordinance. Wherever the Seattle ordinance contains modifications to a section, the ordinance language supersedes the 2009 Washington State Energy Code. There is no one document at this point that folds all the text together. (We are in the process of preparing the Seattle insert pages for the 2009 Washington State Energy Code.)
  

Effective dates:

• For nonresidential spaces, the intent is to have a grace period for the 2009 Seattle Energy Code that would end so as to coincide with the end of the grace period for other Seattle code updates. The last date on which DPD will be accepting applications using the 2006 codes will be 22 November 2010.
• For residential spaces, the 2009 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) requirements will take effect on 1 January 2011, as decided by the Washington State Building Code Council (WSBCC) at their meeting last Friday.

October Membership Meeting Presentation

2009 Washington State N0n-Residential Energy code

For those of you that missed our October membership meeting and those of you that were there and want a copy of the presentation you can access the pdf slide show of Lisa Rosenow's presentation by going to the following link: Presentation PDF. Note: this is a fairly large file and make take a little time to load.

Seattle Energy Code Update - September 30, 2010

In late August, the Mayor forwarded the 2009 Seattle Energy Code ordinance to the Seattle City Council. This afternoon, the Seattle City Council (SCC) Committee on the Built Environment began consideration of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code ordinance. However, the Committee on the Built Environment was not able to complete their review, as the meeting was cut short.

Consequently, the Committee on the Built Environment will continue their discussion of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code at a future meeting later this fall. However, no date has been set yet. For additional information on the full Seattle City Council and for the Committee on the Built Environment, the meeting calendar can be viewed at http://www.seattle.gov/council/calendar/default.htm# and agendas can be found at http://www.seattle.gov/council/com_assign.htm .

In terms of implementation dates:
- For nonresidential spaces, as a result of today’s continuation, the effective date of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code is unknown.
- For residential spaces, the 2009 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) requirements would take effect on the date specified by the Washington State Building Code Council (WSBCC). Since the 2009 WSEC requirements for residential spaces were finalized on 20 November 2009 (more than ten months ago at this point), there would not be any additional grace period. It is expected that the WSBCC would make a decision on the effective date at their meeting on 15 October 2010.

2009 Seattle Energy Code Update

The latest from John Hogan:

The 2009 Seattle Energy Code ordinance will be considered by the Seattle City Council (SCC) Committee on the Built Environment (COBE) at their meeting on Wednesday, 29 September 2010.

• The Committee on the Built Environment meeting starts at 2:00 pm, however, it is estimated that discussion of the Energy Code ordinance would take place at approximately 3:00 pm. The meeting will take place in the SCC Council Chambers, Second Floor, 600 Fourth Avenue, Seattle.
• Copies of the proposed ordinance and a summary of the changes can be downloaded from the “2009 Seattle Energy Code Update” page of the Seattle Energy Code website at: http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Codes/Energy_Code/Overview/2009_ecupdate.asp
  
  

Following an SCC committee recommendation, the full Seattle City Council must then take action at one of their subsequent meetings. Then, after a vote by the full Seattle City Council, the Mayor has ten days to sign an ordinance.

As noted in my last e-mail:

• For nonresidential spaces, the intent is to have a grace period for the 2009 Seattle Energy Code that would end so as to coincide with the end of the grace period for other Seattle code updates. The last date on which DPD will be accepting applications using the 2006 codes will be 22 November 2010.
• For residential spaces, the 2009 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) requirements would take effect on the date specified by the Washington State Building Code Council (WSBCC). Since the 2009 WSEC requirements for residential spaces were finalized on 20 November 2009 (ten months ago at this point), there would not be any additional grace period. It is expected that the WSBCC would make a decision on the effective date at their meeting on 15 October 2010.
  
  

I’ll send out another e-mail as additional information becomes available.

John

2009 NREC forms

The 2009 Washington State Non-Residential Energy Code Compliance forms are now available on the Northwest Energy Efficiency Council (NEEC) website. They are located on our Energy Code page at www.NEEC.net.

Note that the implementation date for the 2009 Washington State Energy Code has been delayed. As such, the 2006 NREC is still being enforced. Use the 2006 versions of the compliance forms until the yet-to-be-determined implementation of the 2009 WSEC is established. Note that the 2009 NREC, when implemented, will also cover multi-family residential buildings.

Northwest Energy Efficiency Council
605 1st Ave Suite 401
Seattle, WA 98104
v 206.624.0283
f 206.292.4125

Questions? Contact lisa@putnamprice.com

Seattle Energy Code Update - September 2010

The following is excerpted from an email sent out on September 07, 2010 by John Hogan with the Seattle Department of Planning & Development:

In late August, the Mayor forwarded the 2009 Seattle Energy Code ordinance package to the Seattle City Council:
- The summary included in the package is viewable at: DPD_2009_Seattle_Energy_Code_SUMMARY_.pdf.
- Seattle City Council review is likely to take place in late September. I will send out another e-mail when a specific date has been decided. (It is expected that the ordinance will be referred to the Committee on the Built Environment, as this is the committee that considered the ordinances for the other construction codes.

In terms of the text for the 2009 Seattle Energy Code, we had a detailed review from the Law Department. DPD did make a number of revisions based on the Law Department’s recommendations. I would generally characterize them as minor, most were wording changes to clarify the intent. However, I did want to highlight one change (but maybe only a process and timing change, as opposed to a substantive change):
- During the 6-month public review, we proposed and received public support to add a new Chapter 16 calling for a minimum amount of on-site renewable energy production, provided that we included two alternates (an option to use higher heating and cooling equipment efficiency, or another option to purchase renewable energy certificates in lieu of installing the renewable energy system on site). The Law Department raised some concerns about the way the alternates would work. To enable us to move forward, the Law Department assisted us in crafting language that says that DPD will develop a Director’s Rule containing alternate compliance options. The ordinance language says that the renewable energy provisions will not take effect until the Director’s Rule is published with these alternate compliance options. My hope would be that we could take the alternate compliance options developed during public review and then fold these into a Director’s Rule soon after the ordinance is adopted.

As a heads-up regarding implementation of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code:
- For nonresidential spaces, the intent is to have a grace period for the 2009 Seattle Energy Code that would end so as to coincide with the end of the grace period for other Seattle code updates. The last date on which DPD will be accepting applications using the 2006 codes will be 22 November 2010.
- For residential spaces, the 2009 Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) requirements would take effect on the date specified by the Washington State Building Code Council (WSBCC). Since the 2009 WSEC requirements for residential spaces were finalized on 20 November 2009 (approaching ten months ago at this point), there would not be any additional grace period.

John Hogan

Seattle Energy Code Update!!

Attached are the revised staff recommendations for the 2009 Seattle Energy Code. (Note: changes from the staff recommendatins discussed at the CCAB meeting on 20 May 2010 are highlighted in yellow in the draft). Click here to view the draft(note: this draft version has been superceded. Go to http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/codes/energy_code/overview/2009_ecupdate.asp to access the most current version).

The revisions are grouped into two categories and summarized below.

This document has been forwarded to CCAB. The CCAB meeting to discuss the revised draft 2009 Seattle Energy Code is scheduled for 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm on Thursday, 15 July 2010, in room 2240 (22nd floor) of the Seattle Municipal Tower at 700 Fifth Avenue. The meeting is open to the public.

Again, thank you all for your participation and contributions to the 2009 Seattle Energy Code,

John (Hogan)


1. Incorporation of CCAB recommendations from 20 May 2010 meeting

Seattle Envstd:

• 701: reference updated to 2009 version of Seattle EnvStd
• 1331, exception: added Seattle EnvStd back in as a compliance option, except for projects using footnote 2 to Table 13-1 and for Group R occupancies.
  
  

Table 13-1, fenestration U-factor:

• 0-30% fenestration area: added in footnote 2 for metal frame fenestration products.
• 30-40% fenestration area: changed metal frame fenestration to U-38 (instead of U-0.35) added in footnote 2 for metal frame fenestration products, added requirement for a minimum VT-0.51 for all fenestration products.
• Footnote 2: revised to clarify when this footnote could be used, when it could not be used, and what calculations were necessary.
  
  

Fenestration VT:

• See Table 13-1 above.
• 1323.4: added new section that references Table 13-1.
• 1335: added new section for trade-offs, with equations.
  

2. Other:

• 1310: deleted proposed amendment as RS-29, Section 1.1, specifies that the standard is for the total building including all of its systems, so nonresidential/residential trade-offs are allowed.
• 1314.6.2: revise to specify confidence interval, to more carefully specify test pressures and ranges, and to add another reference to the informative note.
• 1410: add references to 1470 and 1475.
• 1412.6: deleted proposed amendments as combustion heating equipment > 225,000 Btuh is regulated by the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA).
• 1433: edited informative note for exception 1; deleted proposed amendment for exception 9 but added a word to clarify, also provide waiver of third-party certification for ASHRAE Standard 127 equipment until 2012.
• 1475: delete proposed amendment for Energy Star efficiencies for commercial solid door refrigerators and freezers, commercial ice machines, and refrigerated beverage vending machines, as these are regulated by the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA).
• 1513.6.1: clarify application to stairwell lighting.
• 1621: delete proposed amendment that renewable energy systems be located within Washington State.
• RS-29, title: modify title to specifically include multifamily residential buildings.
• RS-29, Table 3.1 #5: air leakage criteria revised to be the same for both the Standard Design and the Proposed Design.
• RS-35: renamed (formerly Appendix A).
• RS-36: renamed (formerly Appendix B).
  
  

The adoption schedule is still a bit uncertain because some dates depend on schedules of the Mayor and City Council. But, DPD is expecting the legislation adopting the codes to take effect in late August or early September. The effective date will be followed by a 60-day period during which permit applicants can choose whether to use the 2006 or 2009 codes.

2009 Seattle Energy Code

2009 Seattle Energy Code: consensus to move ahead with 2009 SEC using 2009 WSEC as base

The fourteenth public review meeting for the draft 2009 Seattle Energy Code took place this morning (June 21, 2010).
- The topic was a review of a 2009 Seattle Energy Code proposed as amendments to the 2006 Seattle Energy Code (rather than amendments to the 2009 WSEC).
- However, at the end of the discussion, there was a strong consensus to move ahead with adoption of the 2009 Seattle Energy Code (SEC) now, and to use the 2009 Washington State Energy Code as the base document (rather than using the 2006 SEC as a base).

Consequently, City staff will now proceed on the course that was being followed last month, to propose an ordinance based on the document that included the modifications recommended by CCAB at their meeting on 20 May 2010. The implications for this path (and all dates are tentative and depend on the Mayor and City Council calendar) are:
- July: Mayor submits ordinance to City Council.
- August: City Council committee meeting later in the month.
- September: vote by full City Council and signature by the Mayor by the end of the month
- October: ordinance is effective 30 days after signature
Here the road splits:
- Nonresidential spaces: ordinance likely to contain an additional grace period, perhaps the effective date would match up with the update to the other Seattle construction codes.
- Residential spaces: requirements to take effect on the date specified by the Washington State Building Code Council.

Notwithstanding the above, we will still accept written comments on using the 2006 Seattle Energy Code as a base and have a public review meeting to discuss the comments.

The deadline for written comments is Monday, 5 July 2010. Submit comments by
• E-mail to john.hogan@seattle.gov, or
• Fax to John Hogan at 206-386-4039, or
• Mail to John Hogan, Seattle DPD, 700 Fifth Ave, P.O Box 34019, Seattle 98124-4019
If possible, please propose specific language changes with underline to indicate new language and strikethrough to indicate deletions.

The public review meeting to discuss any comments will take place on the 40th floor of the Seattle Municipal Tower (SMT), 700 Fifth Avenue, Seattle.
6 July 2010 (Tuesday) SMT-4050, 1:30-3:30 pm: review of written comments

CCAB discussion is scheduled for 15 July 2010. DPD would then consider these recommendations and forward an ordinance to the Mayor and City Council shortly thereafter. City Council consideration would occur later this summer, with an effective date in the fall.