map-lab, inc.

On February 24th, 2010 a seminar will be held in Cambridge, MA to discuss the effects of the implementation of the new Massachusetts "Stretch Code".

As some of you may remember, the adoption of the Massachusetts Green Communities Act of 2008 marked a step forward for sustainability for the Commonwealth. The Green Communities Act requires Massachusetts to adopt each new International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) edition within one year of its publication. Through an amendment process, the Massachusetts Building Code, 7th Edition, has been updated on January 1, 2010 to ensure it agrees with the 2009 IECC requirements. The changes will affect both residential and commercial construction.

As well, back on May 12, 2009, the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) approved an optional amendment to the 7th Edition Massachusetts Building Code 780 CMR known as the "Energy Stretch Code". The Green Communities Act of 2008 requires Massachusetts to adopt each new International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) edition within one year of its publication. Through an amendment process, the Massachusetts Building Code, 7th Edition, has been updated on January 1, 2010 to ensure it agrees with the 2009 IECC requirements. The changes will affect both residential and commercial construction.

The stretch code would require a third-party certification for a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) index rating of 60 or less on new buildings. The current base energy code in Massachusetts requires a maximum HERS rating of 99. For major renovations under the stretch code, a HERS index of 70 or less is required.