Frankfort, Ky. (May 22, 2015) – The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) and the Public Protection Cabinet’s Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction (DHBC) wants to remind residential and commercial building owners that building to code saves energy and money. The reminder is part of a monthlong awareness campaign sponsored by the International Code Council. Gov. Steve Beshear has proclaimed May as Building Safety Month with one week dedicated to building energy codes. Energy codes ensure buildings are environmentally sound, economical to live in, and provide healthy indoor air quality. In Kentucky, DHBC works diligently to ensure the state’s residential and commercial buildings are safe and efficient. “Energy efficiency is the cleanest and most cost-effective way to reduce energy costs, and our building code officials play an important role in public safety in our built environment,” said EEC Secretary Len Peters. “Whether it’s new construction or a renovation project, incorporating energy efficiency and sustainability features in places where we live, work and play reduces negative impacts on the environment and preserves our natural resources for future generations.” Under the guidance of the Governor’s comprehensive energy plan for Kentucky, “Intelligent Energy Choices for Kentucky’s Future,” Kentucky has developed and implemented new programs and projects to significantly improve energy efficiency in homes, businesses, industries, farms, schools and state facilities. Among the programs to advance energy efficiency in buildings is a three-year study to evaluate and improve energy code activities in Kentucky. The “Kentucky Codes Improvement Study” is being implemented by the Kentucky Department for Energy Development and Independence, DHBC and the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance. The project includes two years of training, outreach and technical assistance for builders, code officials, trade associations and others involved in the residential housing market. The first phase of the initiative is currently underway with preliminary results anticipated in June. Details of the project are available online at http://energy.ky.gov/efficiency/Pages/energycodesurvey.aspx. To help citizens learn how to incorporate energy efficiency practices, resources are available on the U.S. Department of Energy website, http://energy.gov/energysaver/energy-saver. To learn more about ICC Building Safety Month, visit http://www.iccsafe.org/about-icc/buildingsafety-month/2015-building-safety-month-is-may/. Visit www.energy.ky.gov for details about Kentucky’s energy efficiency initiatives.
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