Bill > HR5027

This bill, the Energy Savings and Building Efficiency Act of 2014, aims to improve energy efficiency in buildings by updating and promoting the adoption of building energy codes, with the Secretary of Energy (referred to as "Secretary") playing a key role. It defines important terms like "model building energy code," which refers to voluntary codes developed through consensus, and "IECC" (International Energy Conservation Code) and "ASHRAE Standard 90.1" (energy standards for buildings). The bill requires states and Indian tribes to review and update their building energy codes to meet or exceed established energy savings targets, with the Secretary providing technical assistance and validating their certifications. It also mandates efforts to improve compliance with these codes, defining what constitutes "full compliance" and "significant progress," and outlines reporting requirements for states and tribes that do not meet these standards. Furthermore, the bill supports voluntary programs that go beyond model codes, establishes building training and assessment centers to educate professionals on energy-efficient design, and clarifies that any building asset rating program developed by the Secretary must be voluntary and not intended for regulatory purposes.