The SBCC WSEC-C TAG meeting held on March 7, 2025, focused on significant proposals regarding energy code credits and their recalibration. The discussions highlighted the need for updates to the energy code credits established in the 2021 code, particularly concerning low carbon district energy systems.

One of the main proposals, presented by Jeff Giffin, suggested that the existing energy code credits were insufficient and should be recalculated to better reflect the energy savings potential of buildings connected to low carbon district energy systems. Giffin emphasized that the recalculation should be conducted by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to ensure accuracy. The proposal aimed to align the credits with high-efficiency domestic hot water and building heating and cooling systems, adjusting the efficiency factors accordingly.

During the meeting, a motion was made to disapprove a previous proposal (2 37 r), which passed with minimal dissent. Following this, the group discussed the implications of Giffin's proposal, with members expressing the need for clarity on how the recalibrated credits would be structured. Concerns were raised about the complexity of the current credit tables and the potential need for a prorating flag to address different heating and cooling measures.

The meeting also addressed a separate proposal regarding the removal of an outdated equation used to calculate credits for enhanced commercial kitchen equipment. Rachel, a member of the council, argued that the equation limited the maximum credits a project could receive and proposed that projects should instead receive points based on a table reflecting the maximum credits available for different building types.

As discussions progressed, members acknowledged the importance of streamlining the credit recalculation process and the need for a resolution to guide PNNL in their efforts. Ultimately, the group decided to postpone the proposal until further refinements could be made, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to the credit system.

The meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance Washington's energy codes, ensuring they reflect current technologies and energy efficiency standards. The next steps will involve further collaboration with PNNL to refine the proposals and address the complexities of the credit system, with a focus on maintaining momentum in the legislative process.