The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) contracted with Ecotope, Inc. to conduct the Oregon Commercial Code Evaluation (OCCE). The study was designed to provide a broad understanding of how well new commercial buildings are being built in terms of energy performance capabilities. Ecotope looked at new commercial construction to assess current building characteristics, the degree to which major system code requirements are being met, and how these all come together to affect potential energy performance.
The report documents a shift in mechanical system structure and installed lighting. Overall, compliance in new commercial construction in Oregon is reported to be good. The report concludes that energy use intensity trended downward for all building types. The report provides suggestions for future code development focus, including leveraging trends toward zonal mechanical systems and LED lighting systems.
