Energy Code Changes Are Coming July 1, 2024!

Starting July 1, 2024, the updated Stretch Code will take effect on Nantucket. Adopted at the 2019 Annual Town Meeting, the Stretch Code promotes energy efficiency, sustainability, and reduced environmental impact in construction projects across the Commonwealth, aligning with statewide decarbonization targets.

Key Updates:

• Lower HERS Index Scores: New standards for energy efficiency in new constructions and existing home alterations (see table below).
• Balanced Ventilation: Added requirements for heat or energy recovery ventilation.
• EV Charging Readiness: New wiring requirements to allow for future electric vehicle charging in single-family homes and at least 20% of spaces in new multifamily parking lots.

Source: Updated Stretch Code Summary.

*Note: While Nantucket is among 300 Massachusetts municipalities who have adopted the Stretch Energy Code, it has not adopted the more aggressive "Specialized Energy Code.

Support & Training:

Tips & Resources:

• Start Early: Engage a HERS Rating professional early in your project for guidance on how to achieve code compliance or zero energy goals. Successful projects require integrating home systems - don't treat HVAC and insulation/air-barrier design decisions as afterthoughts.
• Local guidance: Consult with the Town's Building officials for their code interpretations to ensure smoother permitting compliance.
• Rebates & Incentives Available: The Mass Save New Construction Program offers up to $40,000 in rebates for all-electric, high-performance homes.

Questions?

For more ways to save energy on Nantucket, contact Energy Coordinator Lauren Sinatra at 508-325-5379 or [email protected].