WESTFORD — A proposed building code set to appear on a future Town Meeting warrant could add additional energy efficiency requirements for new construction in Westford.
The Select Board voted unanimously to place the Massachusetts Specialized Opt-In Building Energy Code on a future warrant during a Jan. 9 meeting.
The proposal is an additional step in meeting the town’s net-zero emissions goals by 2050, which voters adopted at a 2020 Special Town Meeting.
State law requires new construction in communities to meet minimum energy efficiency requirements. Voters adopted an opt-in Stretch Code at a 2013 Special Town Meeting, allowing for greater energy efficient standards for new construction.
The proposed In-Building Energy Code would offer a “greener” option for the town, ensuring new construction is compliant with the town’s net-zero framework adopted in 2020.
“This will help us reach climate goals by not building [as many] structures with fossil fuels,” said Sustainability Coordinator Sue Thomas.
Over thirty communities have adopted the updated code, including Concord, Lincoln, Acton and Maynard.
Adopting the In-Building Energy Code would add requirements for:
- Pre-wiring for electrification in new buildings with fossil fuels.
- Installments of a certain amount of onsite solar energy for new buildings using fossil fuels.
- New single-family homes greater than 4,000 square feet to be all-electric or certified zero emissions.
- New multi-family homes greater than 12,000 square feet to be a “Passive House,” with greater insulation and air tightness.
This new code would not affect renovations or construction on preexisting homes.
The proposal will be reviewed by the By-Law Review Committee and Town Clerk. The Clean Energy and Sustainability Committee plans to hold additional education workshops and outreach.
