Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) hearing

On June 14, 2016, the Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) held a public meeting about updates to the State Board of Building Regulations and Standards. The main focus of the hearing was on three amendments to proposed updates to building codes. The three updates in question were tightening the stretch energy code, and mandating new buildings be electric vehicle (EV) and solar ready.

The stretch code is a more energy efficient alternative code to the Massachusetts’ building energy code that cities and towns can choose to follow. The base energy code was improved in 2009 but the stretch code was not altered to match the changes in the base code making the stretch code too weak. The amendments about EVs and solar power mandate that new buildings have the wiring and appropriate conditions should future owners want to install rooftop solar panels or an EV charging station.

Along with the Sierra Club, many others testified at the hearing about whether or not these amendments should be adopted. Those who opposed the updates were members of contracting agencies or real estate agencies. Opposing arguments claimed that the BBRS did not have the authority to mandate technology and that these amendments were giving preferential treatment to EV and photovoltaic technology. The EV and solar amendments were the two that came under the most fire from the opposing side. Many stated that technology goes through rapid changes and there could be better energy efficient options in the future.

Emily Norton, our chapter director, issued a statement in favor of the three amendments stating that “updated building codes that meet the energy challenges of our state is a win-win for our environment and economy.” Many others issued statements of support for the amendments saying that they would be a huge help in Massachusetts’ efforts to comply with the Global Warming Solutions Act. One testimony that stood out to me was from a remodeling contractor who vouched for the durability of stretch code homes especially during the winter of 2014. He also stated that new homes having the option to easily install solar panels would be a great improvement. Suzanne Joy DiMeco, Co-Owner of Boston Green Realty, LLC, stated that there is definitely a demand for green technology and energy efficiency from prospective buyers.

There is rising demand for electric vehicles and solar power and we hope that the BBRS chooses to accept the amendments that will bring Massachusetts a step closer to our goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

By Amanda Brangwynne, Mass Sierra Club intern