North Carolina Energy Conservation Code 2024 Edition – Loose Leaf

The 2018 North Carolina State Building Code: Energy Conservation Code (NCECC 2018) is a comprehensive set of regulations aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in buildings throughout North Carolina. Adopted on January 1, 2019, this code integrates the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with state-specific amendments to address local climate and energy needs.

Key Aspects:

Lighting Control Enhancements

• Automatic shutoff requirements now apply to all commercial buildings, regardless of size. Previously, buildings under 5,000 square feet were exempt. 
• Expanded occupancy sensor control mandates include additional room types such as multipurpose, mechanical, and warehouse spaces. 
• Warehouse lighting must reduce by at least 50% when aisles or open areas are unoccupied.
  

Insulation and Fenestration Requirements

• Revised insulation values and fenestration criteria tailored to North Carolina’s climate zones, ensuring optimal thermal performance.
  

Building Envelope Standards

• Mandatory sealing of exterior house wrap seams and joints, except where spray foam is used or wall sheathing is fully glued to framing. 

Duct Leakage Testing

• Duct systems must meet stricter leakage thresholds: total leakage ≤ 5 cfm per 100 square feet or leakage to outside ≤ 4 cfm per 100 square feet. 

Energy Rating Index (ERI) Compliance

• Introduction of the ERI as an alternative compliance pathway, allowing for more flexible energy performance assessments.

Highlights:

• Adoption of the 2015 IECC with State-Specific Amendments
• Enhanced Lighting Control Requirements
• Revised Lighting Power Densities & Efficiency Options
• Energy Rating Index (ERI) Compliance Pathway
• Improved Building Envelope and Duct Sealing Requirements

About ICC

International Code Council is a leading organization dedicated to developing a single set of comprehensive, coordinated national model construction codes. To date, 48 U.S. states have adopted various international codes from the International Code Council.

Other Works:

• North Carolina State Building Code: Mechanical Code 2018 – Loose Leaf
• North Carolina State Building Code: Fuel Gas Code 2018 – Loose Leaf
• North Carolina State Building Code: Residential Code 2018 – Loose Leaf