The Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) is updated every three years, with significant changes made over the past decade to meet the legislated requirement of a 70% reduction in new construction energy consumption by 2030. This session will review the key changes to the WSEC over the past decade, including the upcoming implementation of changes in the 2024 WSEC, to help you gain a broad perspective on how these code changes have impacted building construction in Washington. You will discover why it is essential to account for the energy code in early design decisions and project planning, including the structural, mechanical, and building enclosure interactions that affect compliance. With this clear understanding of the new energy code requirements, you will be equipped to make crucial decisions for selecting a code compliance pathway and implementing effective enclosure and HVAC strategies.
What you’ll learn
- Summarize WSEC-Commercial changes to the thermal enclosure since 2015.
- Identify key mechanical system improvements required by the WSEC-Commercial.
- Recognize how WSEC updates that require accounting for and documenting thermal bridging will affect the design process.
- Explain WSEC-Residential changes to energy credit requirements and clarify exterior wall insulation requirements.
