UPDATE: Bi-partisan Bill Provides Energy Code Relief for Homebuilders

January 24, 2020

UPDATE: HB 2667 is up for a hearing in House Local Government Wednesday, Jan. 29, at 8 a.m. This bill delays implementation of the 2018 Washington State Energy Code for residences. BIAW estimates the cost of energy code compliance will be an additional $7,000 per home. HB 2667 would not only delay implementation but direct the state building code council to find more cost-effective alternatives. BIAW has heard from all areas of the state that the upcoming energy code will impact housing affordability and it is nearly impossible to reach compliance.

A huge thank you to Rep. Mike Chapman (D-Port Angeles) for sponsoring the bill and recognizing the damage it would do to housing affordability.

If you are concerned about the residential energy code and the cost to your customers, please come to testify in favor of HB 2667 and contact Jan Himebaugh (janh@biaw.com). or Ashlee DeLaney (ashleed@biaw.com).

A bill, HB 2667, introduced by Reps. Mike Chapman (D-Port Angeles) and Jacquelin Maycumber (R-Republic) decreases residential construction costs associated with complying with the upcoming implementation of the 2018 Washington state energy code.

The bill highlights the need to balance clean energy standards as well as promoting residential construction. This bill would go a long way in reducing the cost of housing in Washington and still protect Washington’s energy goals.