Q4 2025 Codes, Standards and New Construction Newsletter

This quarter, Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) staff continued to play a central role in shaping energy codes, standards and new construction practices across the Northwest, with significant progress at the state, regional and national levels. Multiple code development processes moved into critical review and adoption phases, while education, training and evaluation efforts expanded their reach and impact.

Several states advanced major code updates. Washington continued work toward finalizing the 2024 Washington State Energy Code—Commercial and Residential, with dozens of NEEA‑supported proposals recommended for approval and new requirements positioning buildings to comply with the state’s Building Performance Standard. In Oregon, the 2026 Oregon Residential Specialty Code process moved forward, with NEEA staff actively supporting the review committee, submitting proposals, and engaging stakeholders through the Oregon Code Collaborative. Idaho advanced its 2024 building codes package to the legislature, and Montana began reviewing the 2024 IECC while maintaining steady stakeholder engagement.

At the national level, the 2027 IECC development process progressed through its first public draft, with NEEA staff serving on key consensus committees and contributing multiple code change proposals to ensure Northwest perspectives are reflected. Looking ahead, NEEA also engaged early in discussions shaping the scope and structure of the 2030 IECC.

Education and training remained a core focus. NEEA delivered and supported a broad slate of commercial and residential energy code trainings across the region, reaching thousands of practitioners through live events and on‑demand resources. Usage of the Washington commercial code compliance webtool continued to grow, reflecting sustained demand for practical compliance support.

Finally, evaluation and research efforts marked important milestones. Market progress evaluations and code compliance studies in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho advanced or were completed, generating new insights into compliance rates, market practices, and future savings opportunities. These findings will continue to inform NEEA’s strategy and investments as the region prepares for upcoming code cycles.