About Building Energy Codes
The Building Energy Codes Program (BECP) mission is to support building energy code development, adoption, implementation and enforcement processes to achieve the maximum practicable, cost-effective improvements in energy efficiency while providing safe, healthy buildings for occupants.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is directed to participate in industry processes to develop model building energy codes, issue determinations as to whether updated codes result in energy savings, and provide technical assistance to states to implement and comply with the codes. BECP fills these roles by working closely with energy efficiency organizations, code development bodies, building design and construction representatives, the code enforcement community, product manufacturers, and the general public. BECP activities are also a key component of the DOE Building Technologies Office (BTO) vision of a United States in which buildings use the minimum amount of energy required for occupant activities and comfort.
The Building Energy Codes Program is a team within the BTO, which resides in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). For more information, view the Building Energy Codes Program Fact Sheet. Information on current BECP goals & activities is also outlined in the BTO Multi Year Program Plan (MYPP).
Statutory Requirements
DOE’s role in building energy codes is defined by federal statute.
Why Building Energy Codes?
The purpose of building energy codes and why they are important.
BECP Program Documents