Agenda - 08-17-2010 - 3b - Laserfiche WebLink

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of saving energy. It is incumbent to ensure that those who occupy the `least safe, least efficient and least well constructed buildings' (the bar set by building codes in general) are afforded some measure of benefit from the improved building science technology of the last 20 years. Additionally, there are economic, environmental, and social benefits for North Carolina if energy codes are improved across the country. North Carolina is already a national leader when it comes to green industry. With an increased national efficiency standard, North Carolina's green economy will grow as it supplies products for buildings across the country. North Carolina's building industry needs support so that the ICC will adopt an effective energy efficiency package that spurs economic growth. Today North Carolina imports nearly 100% of its energy supply. Annually $2.3 billion is spent on coal or approximately $254 per person. In comparison, energy efficiency equates to approximately 75 cents every year per person. An investment in energy will not only lower costs, but it will also help protect local communities and their environment. The United States Department of Energy has estimated that a 30% improvement in national building efficiency would reduce energy bills by $75 billion in 15 years and eliminate the need for 80 new nuclear power plants. As water shortages become more frequent, energy efficiency will help to reduce water use by power plants (it takes 30 gallons water per 1 kV~ and make it easier for local governments to meet the United States Environmental Protection Agency's new ozone air quality standards. The ICC recognizes government members as agencies, departments and units engaged in administration, formulation, or enforcement of laws, regulations, or ordinances relating to public health, safety, and welfare. This includes fire departments, building departments, and public works. Orange County could have several governmental members, with multiple delegations. For example, the building inspections division and other County departments or divisions could each send an eight member delegation of voting members to Charlotte as long as each separate unit registers as an individual governmental member. Currently, the building division is an ICC member, which would provide Orange County with eight voting delegates. If the BOCC desires to send a larger delegation, other departments could become ICC members and each member group could send an eight-person delegation. The last time the "30% Solution" was proposed to the ICC, it failed by six votes. An organized approach may prompt these code modifications to be adopted.. The cheapest energy the country can buy is the energy that is saved. FINANCIAL IMPACT: Membership dues for Orange County are $180 per membership and each membership must be obtained by October 15, 2010 to qualify for voting. Conference costs are $495 per person and accommodations range from $117 to $209 per person per night. The Final Action Hearings (voting processes) are free, but have not been scheduled. Therefore the exact number of days for the series of votes is not known (range is two -four days). . Amtrak fare from Durham to Charlotte is $50 per person roundtrip or mileage would cost $114 per vehicle.