AMHERST — A more stringent building code that would reduce the use of fossil fuels in many new and renovated buildings in Amherst, and require more energy efficient measures in new construction, is a step closer to being embedded in the town’s bylaws.
In this week’s first reading of adopting a specialized opt-in net zero energy code, which goes beyond the existing stretch code that Amherst is mandated to follow as one of 299 Green Communities in the state, members of the Town Council appeared supportive of the measure sponsored by District 5 Councilor Ana Devlin Gauthier.
Devlin Gauthier said the specialized building code will be critical in the face of a changing climate, with heat waves, deep freezes and other major changes happening, and that requiring higher levels of insulation, high performance windows and doors, and increased air-tightness are essential.
“We’re going to see more resilient infrastructure,” Devlin Gauthier said.
Under the opt-in stretch code, Amherst must comply with a stricter home energy rating system and other rules, such as new homes of 4,000 or more square feet must be all electric or net zero in their energy use.
Devlin Gauthier noted that this revised bylaw will not impact municipal buildings, which already must be net zero.
The measure has been recommended by the Town Council’s Community Resources Committee, which in a Sept. 28 report wrote, “Members noted support for adopting the bylaw revision because it is right thing to do for our climate and to meet our climate action goals, our town staff supports it, and that it may result in lower expenses for residents, both homeowners and tenants.”
The current stretch energy code has been in place in Amherst since 2011, though the state updated it for residential properties in January and commercial properties in July.
Building Commissioner Rob Morra said inspection services is already training for the new stretch code and for what will be in place in 2024.
Stephanie Ciccarello, the town’s director of sustainability, said long-term reduced costs will be realized by homeowners and there will be incentives for low-income residents who may need to make changes to their properties. Ciccarello said electrification of buildings can reduce energy bills
In June, Devlin Gauthier, in her endorsement of the opt-in stretch code, wrote that it also matches the Energy and Climate Action Committee’s recommendations and the town’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“This building code is a powerful tool by which we are able to leverage our work towards climate action and energy justice and take a major step in making progress towards our climate goals,” Devlin Gauthier wrote.
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.
