ROOM- Toucan

Texas HB 3215 which was enacted into law in 2021 amended the state’s energy code to recognize HERS® ratings as a compliance option to the state’s energy code. The law presented a glide path to Lone Star builders where over time the required HERS® Index Scores grow lower. This presents dependability for builders who know over time they must improve their homes' energy performance. The law also has a backstop of requiring the 2018 IECC envelope requirements.

 

The new law is having immediate effect. In the first year of being in effect the number of homes HERS® rated in Texas increased by 19%.

 

This will only grow in 2023 RESNET® partnered with the Texas Association of Builders to undertake education programs in all of the states local builder associations on the HERS® Index and the new code compliance option.

 

This session will explore what effect this new option is having in the nation’s largest new housing market and how the Texas movement is relevant to other states. There will be an interview with the Leading Builders of America where the national implications of the Texas law will be explored.