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New Mexico Energy Code The New Mexico Construction Industries Commission adopted the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code to become the New Mexico Energy Code on Friday, December 19, 2003. In related action, the NM CIC also adopted the 2003 International Building Codes, 2003 International Residential Code, and the 2003 Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Mechanical Code. Specific amendments to each of these codes will now be developed, brought to public hearings and made effective by July 1, 2004. The battle for the NM Energy Code is not over. The New Mexico Electrical Code still needs an amendment to rescind its blanket 2 watt per square foot allowance for lighting or for the IECC 2003 code provision to have precedence. Harold believes we are building momentum to change that provision. A lot of good input was provided during the public hearing process. In particular, the CIC liked the testimony of NMAEE member David Robertson who indicated that 1.2 watts per square foot was sufficient for the classroom. He represents the Albuquerque School District, largest school district in the state with 14 million square feet of buildings and half the student population in New Mexico. Harold thanked the Building Codes Assistance Project (BCAP), SWEEP, CfCAE and others for their input and support. |