The objective of this analysis is to quantify the incremental construction cost and energy cost savings associated with constructing a house 50% more energy efficient than a 2006 IECC baseline (50% Savings). A methodology established by Home Innovation Research Labs, formerly the NAHB Research Center, was used to determine the incremental energy cost savings. Two 50% Savings cost optimization analyses were performed; the first used current Federal minimum equipment efficiencies and the second included efficiency optimization of the space heating, space cooling and water heating equipment.
A strong push is being made by many advocacy groups, including the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), to increase the stringency of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) to achieve a 50% Savings. There is a question as to what changes would be necessary to achieve the target savings and if it can be done cost effectively.