Flexibility Added to Green Built Texas and Texas Energy Code
The Dallas BA’s Green Built Texas program recently incorporated critical updates that provide additional flexibility and accommodate a new compliance pathway for the state’s energy code. Green Built Texas, initially known as Green Built North Texas, was created by the Dallas BA in 2005 as a resource efficient construction protocol that serves as a catalyst to transform the market. Since that time, the program has influenced the construction of more than 100,000 homes and been codified in several municipal green building ordinances.
“Along with several ministerial changes such as updating links and references within the program, the program now accommodates new strategies that meet or exceed what we had in the prior version,” said Dallas BA Executive Officer Phil Crone. “For example, there was consternation about the strategies to keep home humidity at a proper level so we added an option for advanced mechanical ventilation such as inline power ventilators and ERVs.”
For many years, Green Built Texas has accommodated homes that seek a HERS Rating®. However, the state’s recent adoption of HB 3215 as a universal energy code compliance pathway has created new opportunities for the program.
The new pathway sets a maximum HERS Index of 63 for the vast majority of homes built in the state. That threshold moves to a more-efficient HERS Index of 59 or below on September 1 of this year. Homes using this option must also meet specific building thermal envelope requirements. Energy Star Version 3.1 is another option for Green Built Texas homes, and aspects of the EPA program appear in various categories of the program.
“With green building moving from an aspiration to an expectation among buyers, it has been hard for builders to distinguish themselves in a cost effective manner,” Crone said. “Thanks to the program’s emphasis on water efficiency, moisture management, indoor air quality and homeowner education in addition to energy efficiency, it is still able to move the market just as it has for more than 15 years.”
More information about Green Built Texas can be found at GreenBuiltTexas.com. The version 3.1 construction protocol can be accessed directly via this link. More information about HB 3215 and its impact is available on the RESNET website including a link to the statute, educational materials and a webinar explaining the changes.