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In this Newsletter:

• Upcoming Webinars & Previous Webinars
• SOLD OUT: SPEER Ambassador/TECCC Meeting in Conjunction With SPEER's Industry + Policy Workshop
• Energy Efficiency Changes coming to HUD and USDA Housing
• Where I'm Headed/Where I've Been
• What We're Reading

Upcoming Webinars

Pipe Insulation and Penetration Sealing Requirements



Join us for an in-depth webinar focusing on the Texas Pipe Insulation and Pipe Penetration Sealing Requirements under the 2021 code updates. This session is designed to provide crucial insights for builders, contractors, and inspectors to stay compliant with the latest regulations.

Key Topics Covered:

• New requirements and exceptions in 2021 codes
• Pipe insulation thickness and R-Value standards
• Fire and smoke safety standards for insulated pipes
• ADA compliance for pipe insulation
• Hot water and solar pipe insulation guidelines
• Effective methods for pipe penetration sealing

Who should attend: Builders, HVAC professionals, inspectors, engineers, and anyone involved in new construction or renovation projects in Texas.

Speaker: Howard Ahern, Airex Manufacturing

When: Monday, September 23rd @ 10:30 AM CST

In Case You Missed It - Past Webinar Offerings

REScheck and IC3 Features and Key Updates from the 2021 IECC for Residential Buildings

In this informative webinar we explore REScheck and IC3, the essential software for energy code compliance, and delve into the significant updates from the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) that impact residential buildings. This session will provide valuable insights for architects, engineers, and building professionals on how to leverage these tools and standards to enhance energy efficiency and ensure compliance with the latest regulations. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of energy conservation and building performance.

Original Air Date: 8/30/24

Check it out on SPEER's YouTube channel.

Call for Speakers

SPEER is looking for individuals or organizations with a passion for our Energy Conservation Code. Are you interested in presenting on one of our webinars? Do you have a topic that is value for builders, inspectors, city officials, 3rd party raters? Contact us today!

SPEER Ambassador/TECCC Meeting in Conjunction With SPEER's Industry + Policy Workshop (*SOLD OUT)

We have scheduled an in-person Ambassadors/TECCC Meeting on Thursday, September 19th in Austin, TX from 9:00 – 11:30. This will be held in conjunction with the SPEER Industry + Policy Workshop at the Archer Hotel in The Domain, beginning at noon on the 19th. *We hope you secured your spot – this year's Workshop is now SOLD OUT!

The meeting currently has the following agenda (subject to change):

• Welcome/Introductions
• SPEER Mission for Ambassadors
• Code Updates SPEER State Network (highlights)
• Ambassador Updates/Open Questions – Local Jurisdictions
• 2024/2027 Code Outlook – PNNL Partnership – Federal Funding

We hope you are joining us for this ongoing partnership between code professionals and SPEER. As always, let me know if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you on September 19th in Austin.

SPEER would like to thank our fantastic roster of sponsors for this year's event! These sponsorships are incredibly important to us and help continue the sustaining efforts of our organization as we educate and support energy efficiency across the Texas and Oklahoma region. With your support, we are able to further our mission and initiatives.

Energy Efficiency Changes coming to HUD and USDA Housing

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has updated its Minimum Energy Standards (MES) to adopt the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2019. These updates affect new housing construction and rehabilitation projects funded by HUD and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The new energy codes aim to reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and improve climate resilience in residential buildings.

The updates will come into effect in 2025. They offer phased compliance deadlines, especially for rural areas with persistent poverty. This ensures that builders and developers have time to adjust to the more stringent requirements. Programs affected include HUD’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program, Section 202, Section 811, and USDA's Multifamily Housing programs, among others.

Key goals of the updated standards are to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance the overall comfort and affordability of housing. By adopting these modern standards, HUD seeks to advance the sustainability and energy performance of new and rehabilitated homes, in line with national climate goals. 

In addition to energy savings, the updates are expected to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making homes more resilient to climate-related stresses such as extreme heat and cold. The enhanced standards also aim to increase affordability for low-income families by lowering energy bills, ensuring that high-quality, energy-efficient housing is more accessible to all. 



For more information, visit HUD's Official Page.

Noteworthy

Where I'm Heading/Where I've Been:

When: Sept. 19th-20th

Where: SPEER's 2024 Industry + Policy Workshop

When: Sept. 25th-26th

Where: Attending and presenting for the MEEA Mid-West Codes Conference

When: Oct. 9th-10th

Where: Attending the Oklahoma Builders Expo

When: Oct. 23rd

Where: Central Texas BPI – Austin

When: Oct. 24th

Where: Alliangroup Engineering evening, Networking Event and presentation

When: Wednesday, October 30th @ 9:50 AM

Where: North Texas Facilities Expo, Irving, TX

Session 11: 2021 IECC Update: Key Changes in Commercial HVAC, Lighting, and Building Codes

This valuable presentation will describe the significant changes introduced in the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for commercial buildings. The session will cover essential updates in HVAC systems, lighting requirements, and overall building codes to enhance energy efficiency. Gain insights on how these changes impact design, implementation, and compliance. Equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the new standards effectively in your upcoming projects.

*Interested in SPEER bringing in-field training to you or learning about the 2021 IECC changes, mechanical ventilation training, and HVAC best practices? Contact us!

What We're Reading:



From the Energy Vanguard: Ductless Mini-Splits Can Get Nasty

Ductless mini-split HVAC systems can accumulate dirt, mold, and grime due to poor filtration, exposure to humid, dirty air, and cold, wet surfaces inside the unit. This results in the blower and other components getting particularly filthy. Cleaning the unit regularly is necessary to prevent these issues, although many systems are not designed for easy maintenance. Improvements in design and filtration are needed to address these challenges in humid climates. You can find more details and a cleaning guide in the article.

For more details, visit Energy Vanguard.

Check out all the resources we have on our website, including a link to our YouTube page with hours of video training content!