2026 Energy Codes Outlook
Rylyn Kelley explains what’s happening with building energy codes in 2026
Codes
Building codes make our cities and communities more resilient and make buildings more comfortable, productive, and safer for those working and living in these spaces. IMT works with local governments to improve residential and commercial code compliance that results in increased energy savings and more efficient buildings across the country.
Interested in IMT’s codes work? Scroll through our blogs and resources below to see how IMT has been collaborating with local and regional organizations to improve buildings codes and code compliance.
The Latest
Making Sense of Lost Savings: Takeaways from the DOE’s Commercial Energy Code Field Study
Do buildings actually comply with energy codes? A Department of Energy project investigated results and offers recommendations for energy efficient building codes and policies
Model Utility Data Access Law
To lower utility bills, you have to know how much energy is being used.
SoCal Fires and Generational Resilience: A 5th Gen Chicana’s Reflection
Taping up my 93 year old grandma’s windows with duct tape and reposting mask mutual aid efforts was not on my 2025 bingo card. But here we are, another wildfire, another scramble to limit smoke inhalation, and another time I wonder if it was always this hard to live in Southern California. The land is … Continued
2025 Energy Codes Outlook: Lawsuits, IECC, BPS Alignment
There’s nothing like a fresh new year to get me excited for goal setting and making progress. I’m not talking about starting an exercise regime or a whole foods diet, I’m talking about energy codes. Can a bench press help save carbon emissions from buildings? No, but energy codes can. Can legumes reduce energy utility … Continued
IECC: Barriers to Climate Action in the 2027 Model Energy Code
We need strong efficiency and electrification proponents in the IECC development process! Make your comments on the draft Scope and Intent by August 19, 2024.
Missed Connections: Building Energy Codes and Building Performance Standards
At what point do buildings exit the realm of energy codes and enter the realm of BPS? Marshall and Louise detail why we need alignment between the two to effectively decarbonize buildings.
Equitable Decarbonization Learning Series: Part 2
This decarbonization learning series explains the relationship between buildings and emissions, how they can emit less carbon, and how policies can create better buildings.
HUD Decision Helps Residents Save on Energy
IMT celebrates the decision by HUD and USDA to update their minimum energy efficiency standards for new homes.
Code Adoption Toolkit: Part 2
This resource explains how to play a role in advocating for adoption of the strongest, most efficient energy codes.