Energy Code Implementation: Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADUs)

Since the energy code update took effect in January 2023, the industry is adjusting to design, detailing and construction to meet compliance. In this series, we’ll review the code requirements with a focus on what to include in construction documents to streamline the permitting process and tips for construction to ease signoffs and occupancy.

• Energy Code Implementation: Single Family New Construction
• Energy Code Implementation: Single Family Additions and Alterations
• Energy Code Implementation: ADUs (this course!)
• Energy Code Implementation: Multi-Family
• Energy Code Implementation: Non-Residential 

Learning objectives

• Understand the current metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
• Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
• Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
• Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.