On March 1, 2015, a modification to the Vermont state building energy code, the Vermont Residential Building Energy Standard (RBES), went into effect. The code modification includes an Energy Rating Index option. The Vermont RBES applies to all new residential construction, including additions, alterations, renovations, and repairs. Section R 406 of the RBES contains the Energy Rating Index Compliance Alternative option for code compliance. The Energy Rating Index option to the Vermont energy code is based on the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) Energy Rating Index option with two significant changes. Vermont’s action represents the first state that has adopted the 2015 IECC Energy Rating Index compliance option. For minimum code the State of Vermont adopted the following HERS® Index Scores: Base Code Target 60 Maximum HERS® Index to demonstrate code compliance Sub Target 65 Maximum HERS® Index without any renewable incorporated Renewables Addition Limit 5 Maximum HERS® Index Points that can be counted towards code target The Vermont code includes an aspiration and innovative path called the Vermont Stretch Code that local municipalities can adopt as a leadership standard. The Vermont Stretch Code requires the following HERS® Index Scores: Stretch Code Target 54 Maximum HERS® Index to demonstrate code compliance Sub Target 65 Maximum HERS® Index without any renewable incorporated Renewables Addition Limit 11 Maximum HERS® Index Points that can be counted towards code target To view the amended Vermont standard go to Vermont Residential Building Energy Standard The IECC is a national model code. States and local jurisdictions are allowed to alter the model code provisions to meet local conditions. While state and local jurisdictions may alter the Energy Rating Index scores, it is RESNET’s policy to support the Energy Rating Index compliance option adopted in Section R 406 of the 2015 IECC. RESNET has published a set of factsheets on the Energy Rating Index option of the 2015 IECC. They cover: Overview of the Energy Rating Index Performance Path in the 2015 IECC Benefits of the Energy Rating Index Score Option Implementation Guidelines for the Energy Rating Index Performance Path Cost Effectiveness of Using the Energy Rating Index to Comply with the 2015 IECC Energy Rating Index Performance Path Frequently Asked Questions Case Studies: Incorporating of the HERS® Index Score Into an Energy Code HERS® Index Scores and Versions of the IECC To educate code officials, home builders and HERS® Raters on the Energy Rating Index compliance option, RESNET has produced a series of PowerPoint presentations. The presentations are targeted for: HERS® Raters Builders Energy efficiency code advocates The presentations can be downloaded at The HERS® Index as a Performance Path to Building Energy Codes
