Establish a moratorium on changes to the state energy conservation code from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code until January 1, 2030, unless approved by the legislature and made effective by the governor.
Impact
If passed, this bill will delay the adoption of potentially progressive energy codes that could enhance the efficiency of residential and commercial buildings. By prohibiting any deviations from the 2024 IECC for the duration of the moratorium, the state aims to establish a baseline of energy performance while also providing time for training and compliance measures. The state building code standards committee will also be required to devise a plan to achieve compliance with the established code in at least 90% of new and renovated structures within the state.
Summary
Bill S0765, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, aims to establish a moratorium on changes to the state's energy conservation code derived from the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) until January 1, 2030. This bill mandates that any amendments to the building code must be approved by the legislature and enacted by the governor, thus providing a framework to ensure stability and consistency in energy conservation policies for a substantial period.
Contention
While supporters of S0765 argue that maintaining a consistent energy conservation framework can enhance workforce training and development, critics may express concerns that a lengthy moratorium could hinder advancements in energy efficiency. The stipulation that any changes to the state conservation code must gain legislative approval could also lead to potential bottlenecks in updating necessary energy standards, particularly as technology evolves. Thus, there is a contention between maintaining stability and fostering improvement in state energy policies.
JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $180,000 FOR THE RHODE ISLAND STATE CONSERVATION COMMITTEE AND ITS THREE CONSERVATION DISTRICTS (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $180,000 to the RI State Conservation Committee and its three Conservation Districts.)
JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $180,000 FOR THE RHODE ISLAND STATE CONSERVATION COMMITTEE AND ITS THREE CONSERVATION DISTRICTS (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $180,000 to the RI State Conservation Committee and its three Conservation Districts.)
Senate Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $180,000 For The Rhode Island State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $180,000 To The Ri State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts.)
House Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $180,000 For The Rhode Island State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $180,000 To The Ri State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts.)
Establishes thermal energy networks network infrastructure by any public utility company that provides electric/natural gas distribution to maximize cost-effective investments deemed in the public interest by the public utilities commission (PUC).
Establishes building safety code standards for multi-dwelling buildings and requires the development of recommendations for resolving any conflicts between fire safety codes and the building codes.
Restructures RI Housing and Conservation Trust Fund, increase its membership to 15 members, 11 of whom are to be from the general public and reallocate the percentage of the funds for housing, conservation and other goals.