Codes, Standards & Legislation 151- The goal for photovoltaic energy is to have 20,000 solar energy
systems installed in federal buildings by the year 2012.
Tax Provisions
- Tax credits will be issued for residential solar photovoltaic and hot
water heating systems. Tax deductions will be offered for highly
efficient commercial buildings and highly efficient new homes.
There will also be tax credits for improvements made to existing
homes, including high efficiency HVAC systems and residential
fuel cell systems. Tax credits are also available for fuel cells and
microturbines used in businesses.
THE ENERGY POLICY ACT OF 1992
The Energy Policy Act of 1992 is far-reaching, and its implemen-
tation is impacting electric power deregulation, building codes, and
new energy efficient products. Sometimes policy makers do not see the
extensive impact of their legislation. This comprehensive legislation sig-
nificantly impacts energy conservation, power generation, and alterna-
tive fuel vehicles, as well as energy production. The federal and private
sectors are impacted by this comprehensive energy act. Highlights are
described below:
Energy Efficiency Provisions
Buildings
- Requires states to establish minimum commercial building energy
codes and to consider minimum residential codes based on current
voluntary codes.
Utilities
- Requires states to consider new regulatory standards that would
require utilities to undertake integrated resource planning, allow
efficiency programs to be at least as profitable as new supply op-
tions, and encourage improvements in supply system efficiency.
Equipment Standards
- Establishes efficiency standards for commercial heating and air-
conditioning equipment, electric motors, and lamps.