Energy codes in Washington and Oregon are like two rivaling superheroes, each with their own unique powers to fight the common enemy: wasted energy! While they both share the ultimate goal of making buildings more efficient and sustainable, they take slightly different approaches.
The “All-Electric” Avenger: Washington State ⚡
Think of Washington’s energy code as a superhero with a specific power: electrification. The 2021 Washington State Energy Code for residential and commercial buildings is a leader in this arena, requiring most new construction to use electric heat pumps for space and water heating.
Residential Reality: If you’re building a new home in Washington, your builder can’t just slap in a gas furnace. Instead, they need to install an electric heat pump, which moves heat instead of creating it, making it super-efficient for both heating and cooling. This is a game-changer for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They also need to meet a certain number of energy credits based on the size of the home. Homes that use heat pumps get a head start, so to speak, on meeting these requirements.
Commercial Combat: The same logic applies to commercial buildings. The code mandates electric heat pumps for heating and hot water in most new commercial and large multifamily buildings. This is Washington’s way of wielding a powerful “all-electric” shield against carbon emissions.
The “Flexible Fighter”: Oregon State 🥋
Oregon’s energy code, on the other hand, is more like a master of many fighting styles. It also aims for high efficiency, but it offers more flexibility in how builders achieve it. The 2023 Oregon Residential Specialty Code is performance-based, meaning it focuses on the final result—a highly efficient building—rather than a strict list of prescribed technologies.
Residential Reality: While Oregon also encourages electrification, its code gives builders options. A builder might choose to use a high-efficiency gas furnace but must then “trade off” with other measures to compensate for the higher energy use. This could mean using superior insulation, better windows, or other energy-saving features. It’s like a points system where you get to choose your path to victory. For example, a home in Oregon might have a lower U-factor requirement for windows (a measure of heat loss) than a similar home in Washington.
Commercial Combat: Oregon’s commercial code, the Oregon Energy Efficiency Specialty Code (OEESC), is based on a national standard called ASHRAE 90.1. It provides a framework for energy performance with Oregon-specific amendments. Like the residential code, it allows for various strategies to achieve energy targets, giving builders and designers more leeway in their material and system choices.
The “Showdown” at the State Line 🥊
So, who wins the battle of the codes? It’s not about one being “better” than the other, but about their different philosophies.
Washington’s “all-electric” mandate provides a clear, decisive path to decarbonization, pushing the market toward electric technologies. It’s a bold, direct punch.
Oregon’s “flexible” approach allows for innovation and the use of a wider variety of materials and systems to achieve the same efficiency goals. It’s a strategic, adaptable move.
In the end, both codes are powerful forces for good, working to ensure new buildings in the Pacific Northwest are as energy-efficient as possible. It’s a friendly rivalry with a shared purpose: a greener, more sustainable future for everyone. 🏡💡
Kevin Arnold
Custom Your Way Design
Washington State Energy Code:
https://www.energy.wsu.edu
Oregon Energy Code
https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/Pages/Energy-Code.aspx
To view house plan that are prepared for the Energy Codes in Washington and Oregon click the linke below: