CT SB00292

Repeals and replaces Section 29-256a to require the State Building Inspector and Codes and Standards Committee to revise the State Building Code to incorporate the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code, requiring optimum cost-effective energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings.

Mandates that new construction or major alterations of residential and nonresidential buildings meet cost-effective standards for thermal envelope, mechanical systems (including indoor air quality and water conservation), and lighting and electrical systems, using nationally accepted green building rating systems like LEED or Green Globes.

Prohibits the use of electric resistance or fossil fuel combustion systems as the primary heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or water heating source in new residential construction or major residential alterations when the State Building Code is revised to incorporate the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code and subsequent versions.

Requires the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to develop a training and education program for engineers, builders, contractors, and construction superintendents on alternative heating systems including air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and on-demand electric water heaters.

Effective date is October 1, 2022, allowing the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to seek federal or private funding for the training program.