6E - Update on proposed changes to Chapter 10-7.5, Green Building and Green Points ProgramCITY OF BOULDER
PLANNING BOARD AGENDA ITEM
MEETING DATE: January 10, 2008
AGENDA TITLE: Update on proposed changes to Chapter 10-7.5, "Green Building
and Green Points Pro am."
PRESENTER/S:
Jonathan Koehn, Environmental Affairs Manager
Elizabeth Vasatka, Environmental Coordinator
Maureen Rait, Director of Public Works for Development & Support Services
Neil Poulsen, Chief Building Official
Kirk Moors, Senior Plans Exanvner/Assistant Building Official
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The proposed adoption of an updated residential Green Points program was evaluated
simultaneously with the proposed adoption of the 2006 International (building) Codes and
the 2005 National Electric Code. The proposed building codes were adopted by reference
and locally amended following the public hearing and second reading on Oct. 30, 2007.
Proposed changes to the Green Points regulations were supported and further amended at the
Oct. 30 meeting. Ordinance 7565 (Green Points) was adopted at third reading on Nov. 13 by
a vote of 7 to 0(Stoakes absent).
At the Nov. 13 City Council meeting, Counci] also requested that potential amendments to
the Green Points program be further evaluated and discussed. Ordinance 7570 (changes to
Green Points) was introduced at first reading on Nov. 13. Staff was requested to provide
some specific analysis of issues in response. The most substantive issue presented by staff,
in response to Council direction, was the proposal that an upper ]imit be placed on how ]azge
an addition or remodel can be relative to the existing house size before meeting the energy
efficiency and Green Points requirements. The threshold proposed at first reading was that a
pernut application to increase the floor area of the existing building by more than 100 percent
be required to earn the same amount of Green Points and also be subject to the energy
efficiency thresholds as required for new construction of the same size. The public hearing
and second reading of Ordinance 7570 was scheduled for Jan. 22, 2008 in arder to provide
time for the analysis of this issue.
Staff continues to research and investigate how this proposed trigger could impact
homeowners and their building projects. To date, this work has inciuded an examination of
the residential zoning districts of single-family detached housing, at low to very low
residential densities and medium densities on small-lot residential development. The data
collected includes lot sizes and the building size distribution and floor area ratio reflected in
AGENDA ITEM # ~ ~ PAGE 1
building permits issued from 2003 -2007. This information will assist staff in better
understanding the historical building activity in these geographical areas.
Staff has also been working with a prominent energy service company that specializes in
energy performance and design using energy modeling and HERS (Home Energy Rating
Systems) ratings to verify energy performance of a specific project. This company is
assisting staff with an analysis of the impacts of regulations including the costs and potential
equity issues surrounding the new construction requirements for additions to existing homes.
Finally, in keeping with the Climate Action Plan, staff is analyzing energy audit information
that has been complied by the Center for Resource Conservation's (CRC) Residential Energy
Audit Program (REAP). City staff has results from the 2006 pilot REAP audits and 2007
data will soon be available.
The Guidelines Booklet, a document prepared to facilitate the implementation of recently
adopted Green Points code changes, will be discussed at the Jan. 24, 2008 Planning Board
meeting. An update on the status of Ordinance 7570 will also be provided at that meeting.
COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY FILTER IMPACTS:
• Economic: The adoption and consistent application of building codes and standazds
that reflect public safety objectives supports all segments of the community and a
sustainable economy. Proposed mandatory measures will have an economic impact
on home builders by increasing the hard construction costs by approximately one to
five percent, Investments associated with proposed Green Point measures increase
energy efficiency in the new housing stock, which is more cost effective than
retrofitting later. Additionally, these measures will reduce ongoing operational costs
for the life of the home.
• Environmental: The proposed mandatory requirements establish energy efficiency
baselines above the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code that relate to house
size for new construction. Additionally, these requirements will provide a foundation
on which to develop and implement future code revisions to further align the program
with sustainability goals. Energy effciency in new construction and existing
structures is an established priority in the Climate Action Plan (CAP).
• Social: Public safety elements of construction codes address the social impacts of the
Boulder community by supporting the management of potential impacts to life and
property. Additionally, energy efficiency improvements benefit the community by
reducing carbon emissions. Homeowners benefit with lower, more predictable utility
bills as energy prices continue to increase in the future. As noted later in this
memorandum, the interest in amending the ordinance to address large remodel and
addition projects (as new construction) could potentially result in more demolitions
and scrape offs. Staff can closely monitor this issue and report quarterly on actual
outcomes. Alternatively, the proposed ordinance language could be adjusted.
AGENDA ITEM # l ~ PAGE 2
OTHER IMPACTS:
• Fiscal: Costs for the implementation of the code changes, including training for
customers and staff, aze included within the city's operating budget. Staff is working
with the Governor's Energy Office to secure two grants (each $25,000 with
committing city matching funds) that will allow the city to put more resources into
energy efficiency education and training, including offering energy efficiency
improvements to builders and homeowners. Additionally, there is a clear connection
with strategies identified in the Climate Action Plan (CAP) that can create additional
funding support for increased energy efficiency in residential structures.
• Staff time: Periodic code update and maintenance is pazt of the normal work plan
involving the use of staff resources.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Proposed amendments to Green Points were introduced at first reading on Nov. 13, 2007.
The public hearing and second reading of the proposed changes are scheduled for the Jan. 22,
2008 City Council meeting. A report on the status of the analysis of this work is presented in
this memorandum.
BOARD AND COMMISSION FEEDBACK:
Please refer to the Oct. 16 City Council packet for board and commission feedback received
by that date on the Green Points program. (See:
http://bouldercoloradogov/files/C1erklAgendas/2007/10-16-07/3h_memo.pdf )
Please refer to the Oct. 30 City Council packet for additional boazd and commission feedback
obtained since Oct. 16 on the Green Points program:
http://www.bouldercolorado. eov/files/Clerk/Aeendas/2007/ 10-30-07/2a.pdf
http://www.bouldercolorado. eov/files/Clerk/Agendas/2007/ 10-30-
07/attachment 1 and 2.pdf
htty://www.bouldercolorado.eov/files/Clerk/Agendas/2007/10-30-07/attachment 3.pdf
PUBLIC PROCESS AND FEEDBACK:
Please refer to the Oct. 16 and Oct. 30 City Council packets for public process and feedback
related to the code changes being discussed at that time.
Since Oct. 30, city staff convened a meeting (on Oct. 31) with Boulder County Land Use
staff, Architectural Energy Corporation (AEC), two prominent and well respected HERS
rating businesses in the Denver metro/Front Range area, and Jim Logan from Jim Logan
Architects in order to exchange information about the proposed city and county green
building programs and the HERS rating system. This meeting was the second in a series
to work out the compliance details with the HERS rating system in order to develop tools,
AGENDA ITEM # ~E PAGE 3
such as booklets, that provide educational support for city and county building permit
customers.
During the meeting, AEC's work in establishing the HERS rating score that customers will
use to comply with the mandatory green building measures for new construction was
discussed. AEC will continue to model and conduct analysis to align specific energy
efficiency thresholds above the code with HERS rating scores and this detailed information
will be included in the Green Points booklet. However, the HERS rating professionals noted.
that from their perspective, the proposed energy efficiency threshold tiers, along with the
supporting information prepared by AEC to date, represents an aggressive, yet achievable
direction in the marketplace. In light of the goal to update the Green Points program in a
manner that both challenges and supports the building community, this meeting reinforced
the approach being taken by the city that mirrors the actions of the European Union (EU) and
provides a foundation from which future changes can be easily implemented. The significant
difference is that the EU has a goal of Carbon Neutrality within 10 years. The city has not
yet identified a goal past the Kyoto Protocol in 2012. Policy discussions about future city
goals will continue with the implementation of the Climate Action Plan and a Council study
session is being scheduled for 2008 as mentioned later in the memorandum.
BACKGROUND:
At the Oct. 30, 2007 meeting, City Council supported proposed amendments to Ordinance
7565 which require a third reading. Council requested that the adoption of the amended
Ordinance be placed on the consent calendar for the Nov. 13 City Council meeting.
Additional but related work items identified by City Council at the Oct 30 meeting are
outlined below.
During the staff presentation on Oct. 30, it was noted that this current phase of Green Points
work is focused on increased energy efficiency thresholds for new construction. A second
phase of work will include the development and implementation of an annual program
evaluation of energy use by house size that reflects the carbon emissions of the actual
installed systems and equipment in the new housing stock. The ongoing evaluation of the
required verification method of a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index will provide
actual data to be used for future analysis of energy efficiency thresholds of building codes in
order to inform the timing of "ramping" up to a determined threshold for new construction of
single and multi-family unit dwellings.
Building codes play an important role in reducing energy use and carbon emissions in the
city's new and existing building stock. Staff will further evaluate water conservation
measures and energy efficiency measures for existing homes as part of the second phase of
this project. These types of evaluations will be coordinated with Planning and Development
Services, the Office of Environmental Affairs and community stakeholders in an effort to
continually improve energy and resource efficiency measures for existing homes. Staff
noted that the development and implementation of a Commercial Green Building Program
and the evaluation of the 2009 ICC green building code are additional work items for the
future.
AGENDA ITEM # t PAGE 4
At the Oct. 30 meeting, Council requested staff evaluation of an amendment to Green Points
to respond to the concern that some threshold of "additions" and "remodels" should be
evaluated as "new construction" for the purpose of applying energy efficiency requirements.
Council requested the careful consideration of code language that did not cause unintended
consequences, such as encouraging more scrape-offs. In this evaluation, staff was directed to
review the county's threshold for new construction. Council requested that the potential
ordinance be scheduled for the Nov. 13 meeting and that this item be scheduled as a public
hearing (in addition to first reading). Additional green building work items were also
identified by Council.
ANALYSIS:
Amendments to Green Points proposed at First Reading (Nov. 13, 2007)
Changes to the Green Points program as proposed at first reading are summarized as follows:
10-7.5-2 (a) (2)
Clarification language was added to section 10-7.5-2 (2) that explains that multiple
applications within a 12 month period are considered a single application in regards to
meeting both the Mandatory Green Building and Resource Conservation Green Points
requirements. This section is meant to prevent the avoidance of program requirements by
making several "below threshold" applications within a short timeframe.
10-7.5-3 (a) (2)
Subsection (2) was added in response to City Council direction that an upper limit be placed
on how large an addition can be relative to the existing house size without meeting the
energy efficiency requirements for new construction. Projects that result in an increase in
floor area greater than 100 percent must meet the energy efficiency requirements for new
construction shown in Table 1. Related changes were also made to 10-7.5-4(a) and 10-7.5-7,
as noted below.
In considering code language options for what level of work will be evaluated as "new
construction," staff reviewed Boulder County's proposed threshold for remodels and
additions, which is as follows: For additions and renovations to an existing structure of a
size greater than 500 square feet in size, which will result in either a total floor area of less
than 3,000 square feet or in less than 3,000 square feet of the existing structure being
renovated, the goal is to bring that existing home, with the addition or renovation to a HERS
Index of 85. Staff's evaluation of this threshold is that the potential work and costs
associated with upgrading the existing structure and the new portion of the project to achieve
a HERS rating of 85 is unknown and variable for every project and as such this threshold
language is not recommended.
Staff believes that the language proposed responds to Counci] direction. However, as noted
in the impacts section of this memorandum, there are some concerns that this change could
result in more demolitions and scrape offs. Staff can closely monitor remodels and additions
AGENDA ITEM # PAGE 5
during 2008 and report quarterly on actual outcomes. This work should assist and inform
future recommendations for building permit triggers proposed as tools for regulating energy
efficiency measures in existing housing. Alternatively, Council could eliminate the
proposed amendment to Section 10-7.5-3 which would result in projects with an increase in
floor area greater than 100 percent triggering only the Green Point requirements, instead of
both Green Points and mandatory measures.
10-7.5-3 (f)
In response to public comment received at the previous meeting, a direct vent boiler section
was added under the mandatory requirements. Direct vent appliances use two plastic pipes.
One pipe pulls combustion air from the exterior and the second pipe is used to blow the
products of combustion to the outside with minimal affect to indoor air quality. Sirnilaz to
the direct vent furnace requirement, when a new boiler is required in relation to an addition
or remodel, the boiler must be replaced with a direct vent model that has a minimum
efficiency of 85 percent AFUE. The efficiency rating for boilers is five percent lower than
furnaces because of the limited availability of boilers at greater than 90 percent efficiency.
The new mandatory direct vent boiler requirement matches the Energy Star boiler program,
which means that the Energy Star boiler point allowance under the Green Point section has
been deleted (under 10-7.5-4) to eliminate duplication of this requirement.
10-7.5-4 (a)
Similar to the changes listed under 10-7.5-3 (2), language was added to the schedule for
green points to establish that additions that amount to more than a 100 percent increase in
floor area must meet the comparable green point requirements for new construction.
10-7.5-4 (e) (2) (A)
The maximum window u-value allowed has been reduced from 0.35 to 0.34 in response to
public comments received at the last meeting. A concern was raised because the green point:;
window requirements were not more restrictive than the base International Energy
Conservation Code (IECC) baseline requirements. The value was adjusted to .34 on the basis
that it is more restrictive than the baseline IECC requirement, but still allows for maximum
flexibility in regard to the types of windows that can be used within the program.
Environmentally Preferable Products Chart
The foundation aggregate line of the table was deleted since all concrete is made from
aggregate that is not hauled more than 500 miles. In order to maximize the effectiveness of
the program, green points are not awarded for standazd construction practices.
10-7.5-7 Definitions
A definition for demolition and demolish was added. The language is coordinated with Land
Use definitions in order to make the requirements as consistent as possible between the
various city regulations.
AGENDA ITEM # ~ PAGE 6
Council Feedback at First Reading (Nov. 13, 2007)
During the discussion of Ordinance 7570 at the Nov. 13 City Council meeting, no questions
were raised regazding the minor changes to the ordinance outlined by staff during the
presentation. Council discussion focused on the substantive issue presented by staff, in
response to Council direction, that an upper limit be placed on how lazge an addition or
remodel can be relative to the existing house size before meeting the energy efficiency and
Green Points requirements. The threshold proposed at first reading was that a permit
application to increase the floor area of the existing building by more than 100 percent be
required to earn the same amount of Green Points and also be subject to the energy efficiency
thresholds as required for new construction of the same size.
Tim Plass, representing himself and not the Landmarks Boazd, offered during the public
heazing that while generally supportive of the Green Points proposal, he was concerned with
the 100 percent trigger. Mr. Plass recommended that staff take a closer look at the proposal's
impact to historic structures and those structures not yet designated to better understand the
affect on "pops and scrapes" and zero-waste goals.
During the public hearing, Premena discussed issues involving radon control and limiting
energy use through allocations and inquired about Boulder's proposal relative to other
progressive regulations in the State, such as Pitkin County.
City Council members expressed their concern that they did not want the trigger to result in
more demolitions and scrape offs. It was also noted that no action in this azea could results
in a reverse condition (maintaining inefficient housing). Council also indicated that any
trigger should be equitable. Staff was requested to look into options in addition to the
proposed (100 percent) trigger. Staff indicated that modeling specific expansion scenarios
would help illustrate the potential impacts of options. Staff was also asked to consider how
the goal of Carbon Neutrality set by the European Union may inform how and when the tiers
for energy efficiency thresholds maybe updated.
Update on Analysis
The reseazch staff has conducted to date is intended to identify equity issues involving the
proposed 100 percent trigger for additions. The work includes reviewing Boulder's
residential zoning districts for Residential-Rural 1 and 2, Residential-Estate and Residential-
Low 1 and 2. These districts aze categorized as residential low and medium density housing
areas. Data collection has included lot sizes, and building permit information, from 2003-
2007, such as size of project, date of building construction, and floor azea ratio. This data
will inform the modeling scenarios that are being used to more fully understand the
implications and costs of upgrading the existing housing stock, when alterations are being
proposed through the building permit process.
Staff has also been working with Lightly Treading Inc., an energy and design service
company doing work in the Front Range Region on residential energy modeling and rating
new and existing houses, calculating and quantifying energy performance. This work is
AGENDA ITEM#~PAGE 7
intended to better understand the existing housing stock and to model scenarios to assist in
identifying impacts of specific size additions and associated triggers for new home
construction standazds under the adopted Green Points Program, such as mandating energy
efficiency retrofits to the existing house.
The specific modeling information of assumed measures and costs are not yet completed. To
assist in understanding the Green Building and Green Poinis regulations and the potential
trigger, examples }rave been outlined in the table below. The goal of this research is to better
quantify impacts to the homeowner, market place and city organization so that regulations
can be implemented without creating unintended consequences.
House Existing Addition- Adopted Regulations: Gr. Bldg. Proposed Regulations: >100%
Example (sq. ft.) >100% of & Gr. Pts. Regulations floor area addition triggers new
existing construction requirements for a
floor area 3,000 sq. ft. house
(s . ft.)
Single 1,500 1,500 Gr. Bldg. Mandatory Gr. Bldg. Mandatory Requirements:
family Re uirements:
detached 1. Energy Audit of existing house 1. HERS rating = 70 for entire
single story structure (1,500 existin , 1,500 new)
ranch 2. Energy Efficient lighting a. Hire HERS rater -rate existing
replaced in 50% of existing house house to set a baseline energy
fixtures performance.
b. Model new addition to exceed a
70 HERS rating.
c. Combine estimated upgrades to
existing structure and efficiency
values of building envelope to ne:w
construction regulations to meet
compliance of entire structure to be
30% more efficient.
3. New construction waste 2. New construction waste recycling
rec clin
Gr. Pts. Mandato Re uirements: Gr. Pts. Mandato Re uirements:
20 points from optional menu 20 points from optional menu
(excludin sections e & )
A significant equity issue with the trigger as currently proposed is that a bigger house does
not have to meet new construction requirements for energy efficiency until its addition is at
least as big as their existing house. (i.e. a 2,500 sq. ft. house does not trigger higher
requirements until it adds on a 2,500 sq. ft. addition). This could promote a sizeable addition
(such as a 2,400 sq. ft. addition, in this scenario) and a larger energy footprint that would not
tugger new construction requirements for energy efficiency.
Depending on the year the existing structure was built, an existing house may require some
extensive upgrades to comply with the new construction standards. One example is
reflected in a project involving the Climate Action Plan implementation. Assistance to the
AGENDA ITEM #_~~_PAGE 8
popular home energy makeover sponsored by Xcel Energy and others has been provided by
the Colorado Energy Science Center and includes CAP funds and coordination. The house
selected for the makeover is a 1901 brick duplex of 1,800 sq. ft. in downtown Boulder (not in
a historic district or a contributing or landmazked building). Criteria for selection included
high energy costs and the need of energy efficiency retrofits.
An initial HERS rating was done on the house to set a baseline and understand the energy
saving opportunities in the structure. The HERS Index is a scale from 500 - 0; the lower the
score the more energy efficient the house. This house's HERS Rating is 383 and is the most
energy wasteful house that Lightly Treading had ever rated. Numerous opportunities for
energy savings have been identified. The top priorities aze the foundation, ceiling and wall
insulation and air sealing, HVAC equipment and duct sealing, lighting and appliance
upgrades and replacement windows. The proposed improvements to the house are outlined
in Attachment B. The cost of equipment, services and installation is approximately $30,000.
When the improvements aze made, it is estimated that a HERS rating of 101 will be achieved.
While this is an example of an existing home retrofit, and the amount of work needed for an
existing structure to meet a low HERS rating, this example does not include a new addition.
Additional reseazch has also included working with CAP staff to better understand the energy
audit program and data provided by the Center for Resource Conservation's REAP
(Residential Energy Audit Program) findings. Reviewing the end of year data from all the
subsidized energy audits performed in the city is intended to show the most common energy
efficiency opportunities of the houses that were examined during the audit process. The CRC
audits included energy analysis and evaluation done on single family homes in 2006 and
2007. The 2006 data was the first year, and considered a pilot yeaz. The REAP is designed
as an energy assessment of three phases (homeowner interview, technical audit, and a
comprehensive assessment of the findings). Of the 15 audits done in 2006, the majority of the
homes were less than 2,500 sq. ft. and participants were working families or seniors. The
median age of the houses was 32 yeazs and the energy use breakdown was:
• Heating & cooling - 58%
• Water heating -19%
• Refrigeration - 12%
• Appliances & lighting - 11%
The three most popular findings from the technical audits were:
• Insulate attic, crawlspace, walls and aoound hot water pipes
• Sealing around windows, doors, air ducts and light fixtures
• Install energy efficient lighting and fixtures.
Energy codes did not exist before the 1980s and codes are minimum requirements. It is
critical to address the existing housing stock's energy efficiency opportunities. However,
much work must be done to understand the market dynamics, building activities and
available technical resources to ensure successful implementation of any regulations
governing the existing housing stock.
AGENDAITEM# PAGE 9
The public hearing and second reading of Ordinance 7570 is scheduled for the Jan. 22, 2008
City Council meeting. The Guidelines Booklet, a document prepared to facilitate the
implementation of recently adopted Green Points code changes, will be discussed at the Jan.
24, 2008 Planning Board meeting. Staff will provide Planning Board with an update on the
status of Ordinance 7570 and associated staff analysis at the Jan. 24 Planning Boazd meeting..
FUTURE WORK ITEMS:
On Nov. 13, 2007 staff provided the City Council with the following information about
future work items:
• HERS rating as a marketing mechanism to promote energy efficiency,
• Carbon-measurement and onsite renewable requirements,
• Timing for achieving the 50 percent threshold,
• Community sustainability effort involving a clean energy cluster and the workforce
and labor development that would facilitate training in the construction trades for at-
risk youth and those with low income,
• Appropriate weighting of resource conservation efforts.
A summary of action items is included below. A City Council study session is being
scheduled for mid 2008 so that policy guidance may be obtained on the establishment of a
future energy efficiency goal, beyond the 2012 established Kyoto targets. Staff will also
provide an update on these action items as part of the study session. The study session
material will also be provided to the Planning Boazd.
HERS rating as a marketing mechanism to promote energy efficiency. With the HERS
rating score as the energy efficiency compliance for the Green Points program, staff will
work to educate the building community on HERS Raters' services. Just as other
communities in New Mexico, California and Oregon are using HERS ratings as a mazketing
tool, Boulder will also pursue the promotion of the use of this tool to help create more of a
mazketing advantage for energy efficient homes. For example, staff will work with realtors
through the Boulder Green Building Guild, Boulder County Realtor Association, and the
local MLS listings for Boulder County to use the HERS rating score as a key measure for
energy performance in the new housing stock.
Carbon-measurement and onsite renewable requirements. As for calculating and
capping carbon emissions as part of the Green Points program, staff anticipates working
closely with Boulder County, AEC and the HERS Raters to understand the credible standards
that will be coming into the marketplace in the near future. It is crucial that standards and
calculations are tested for carbon emissions associated with residential building mechanical
and/or renewable systems for Boulder's fuel mix, making these calculations accurate to the
city's energy supply. This issue is being discussed with RESNET, the accrediting body for
HERS Raters and the certified software used by the raters to ensure the creation of new
"carbon calculator" standards for the software tools.
AGENDA ITEM # to PAGE 10
Staff will also continue to monitor the city's building permits and the installation of luxury
items being installed in Boulder's housing stock that increase energy use for snow melt, spas,
pools and heated garages.
Timing for achieving the 50 percent threshold. Staff will be monitoring and evaluating
the building permit HERS ratings and Green Points chosen by the applicants permitted for
the up to 3,000 sq. ft. threshold. This evaluation process will include interviews with
architects and builders on the practices and costs of actual projects at this threshold level, in
addition to multi-unit dwellings to access the energy use, ease or difficulty of achieving this
threshold and implications of increasing it to 50 percent more energy efficient in 2009 or
beyond. As noted, a City Council study session is being scheduled for mid 2008, so that
policy guidance may be obtained on the establishment of a future energy efficiency goal,
beyond the 2012 established Kyoto tazgets.
Community sustainability effort involving a clean energy cluster and the workforce and
labor development that would facilitate training in the construction trades for at-risk
youth and those with low income. Council requested that staff evaluate potential
opportunities to enhance the Community Sustainability aspect of Green Points by
incorporating elements of labor development for at risk youth and those with low income.
Staff has identified several existing opportunities which wiU be pursued during 2008.
1. The Energy Center of the Rockies encompasses a full range of energy conservation
resources, programs and events offered by the Center for Resource Conservation, and
is anticipated to be included in the Transit Village Area Plan. The Energy Center's
mission is to inspire action that advances energy efficiency, renewable energy and
energy conservation technologies and approaches in Colorado's built environment.
There may be a component of the energy center that could be created to facilitate
training in green building construction trades, as well as a progressive training into
home energy auditors, and finally home energy raters.
2. YSI is the city of Boulder's Youth Services Initiative (YSI) program which is a
community-based after-school and summer recreation program that serves youth
living in Boulder's public housing sites. YSI offers recreational and educational
opportunities for youth ages seven to 15 and is administered by the city's Parks and
Recreation Department. The Office of Environmental Affairs has been discussing the
potential of offering environmental related topics with Parks and Recreation
Department staff, and could begin to identify prospective interest in green building
opportunities.
3. Schools throughout Boulder County aze partnering with Eco-Cycle to move toward
Zero Waste through increased recycling, the implementation of composting, and
special waste reduction activities. The project is part of Eco-Cycle's School
Recycling and Environmental Education Program. Seven additional schools have
already signed up to join the program during the 2007-08 and 2008-09 school years,
and are eager to start working toward Zero Waste. City staff has been discussing the
opportunities to weave energy efficiency and green building practices into the
curricula.
AGENDA ITEM #_~c: PAGE 11
4. The Boulder Green Building Guild is an association of building professionals
dedicated to promoting healthier, resource-efficient homes and work places, and
continues to be the focal point for communication on green building. There is a cleaz
connection between the city's Green Points program and the efforts of BGBG, and
staff will continue to influence the facilitation of additional low income labor
development.
Appropriate weighting of resource conservation efforts. As is the case with green
building programs across the country, it is a challenge to evaluate all the "sustainable"
products, measures, methods and technologies in an equitable manner. Staff has worked hard
at creating equity within our Green Points program update; yet, the distribution of points per
green building option may not meet all stakeholders' objectives. Staff's goal has been to
create equity between the options and the assigned points. Staff strives to achieve this goal
through the application of criteria while striving to balance cost effectiveness, energy
efficiency, and resource conservation (which includes the embodied energy component).
Additionally, staff also works to respond to community priorities and/or azeas where there is
interest in increasing awareness around issues of environmental concern. Nationally and
internationally there are numerous issues coming to the forefront in the area of green
building. Such issues include [he role of historic preservation in the green building
movement, as coupled with calculating embodied energy and life-cycle costs into demolition
of existing structures, material extraction, manufacturing, transportation and pollution
generated by all the components of receiving building materials to the construction site. As
measurements become more standardized, the city staff will be incorporating additional
practices into future phases of revisions to the Green Points/or future green building
programs. As noted during recent discussions of the Green Points program, this program is
dynamic and will continue to evolve as the rapidly changing industry also evolves.
ATTACHMENT A: Ordinance 7570 as proposed at first reading (Nov. 13)
ATTACHMENT B: Proposed Improvements for the Energy Makeover House
AGENDA ITEM # G PAGE 12
ORDINANCE N0.7570
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 10-7.5, "GREEN
BUILDING AND GREEN POINTS PROGRAM," B.R.C 1981,
ADOPTED PURSUANT TO ORDINANCE NO. 7565, ADDING
REQUIREMENTS RELATED TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND
GREEN POINTS PROVISIONS RELATED TO DEMOLTfION,
ADDITIONS, REMODELS, BOILERS AND WINDOWS, AND
SETTING FORTH RELATED DETAILS.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BOULDER,
COLORADO:
Section 1. Pazagraph 10-7.5-2 (a)(2), B.R.C. 1981, is amended to read:
10-7.5-2 Scope and Administration
(a) Scope. The provisions of this chapter apply to the following:
(1) New construction, remodels, or additions to a dwelling, including without
limitation single-unit dwellings, multi-unit dwellings, and dwellings within mixed
use developments.
(2) Any two or more building permits for the same structure that aze applied for in
any 12 month period shall be considered as one application for the purpose of
meeting the requirements of Sections 10-7.5-3.
"Mandatorv Green Buildine Requirements." and 10-7.5-4. "Resource
Conservation -Green Points." B.R.C. 1981.
Section 2. Section 10-7.5-3, B.R.C. 1981, is amended to read:
10-7.5-3 Mandatory Green Building Requirements
(a) En~Efficiency_ An applicant for ethe following -building permit annlications €e~
eask-a°•g-shall demonstrate that the building is more energy efficient than a
building that meets the minimum requirements of Chapter 10-7, "International Energy
Conservation and Insulation Code," B.R.C. 1981.
(11 Anew dwelling; or
21 An addition or remodel to a dwelling that rororooses to increase the floor area of
the existing building by more than 100 roercent.
Table 1 lists the minimum energy efficiency requirements.
TABLE 1 -Tiers for Energy Efficiency Thresholds
Type of Project Square Footage Energy Efficiency Thresholds Above Code
New Construction
K:lplbi~o-7570.179.doc
Agenda Item Page ~
3 _
Up to 3,000 30 percent more energy efficient than 2006 IECC
3,001-5,000 50 percent more energy efficient than 2006 IECC
5,001 and up 75 percent more energy efficient than 2006IECC
Multi-unit Dwellings Applies to all 30 percent more energy efficient than 2006
IECC*
* The city manager is authorized to develop a HERS rating sampling protocol for multi-
dwellingprojects to ensure compliance with this section.
(b) EnergxEfficie:ncy -HERS Index Rating. Anew dwelling shall be evaluated using the
Home Energy Rating System (HERS). The HERS rating will be used for the verification
of energy performance of new construction. A HERS rating shall be performed by a rate:r
accredited by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET).
(c) , Enerev Audit. An applicant for a building permit for an addition to a dwelling or a
remodel of a dwelling shall be required to obtain an energy audit. The applicant shall
provide proof of the completion of the energy audit with a building permit application.
The energy audit of the house shall quantify the annual energy performance of the
building according to generally accepted standazds for energy audits approved by the city
manager. An energy audit or an optional HERS rating report will indicate how efficiently
the building is operating and where inefficiencies are occurring.
(d) Liehting Efficiency. Prior to final inspection foz an addition to a dwelling or a remodel
of a dwelling the applicant shall install energy efficient lamps (light bulbs) with a
luminous efficacy of 40 lumens per watt or above in at least 50 percent of the existing
home's light fixtures.
(e) Direct Vent Furnace. When the scope of the work of an addition to a dwelling or a
remodel of a dwelling requires replacement of a furnace, the furnace shall be replaced
with a direct vent unit that has a minimum 90 percent AFUE.
(f) Direct Vent Boiler. When the scoroe of the work of an addition to a dwelline or a
remodel of a dwelline requires replacement of a boiler. the boiler shall be replaced with a
direct vent unit that has a minimum 85 percent AFUE.
~ Construction Waste Recvcline. An applicant for a building permit for a new dwelling or
an addition to a dwelling shall demonstrate that a minimum of 50 percent of construction
waste is recycled. Waste diversion calculations and tracking spreadsheet form must be
provided at project completion which shows that the minimum recycling requirements
have been met. No person shall fail to complete the diversion calculations and tracking
spreadsheet or recycle construction waste as required by this section.
(gIr, Demolition Manaeement. An applicant proposing to demolish t e dwelline. as that term
is defined in Section 10-7 5-7 "Definitions " B R C 1981
eerier
rv~ls shall demonstrate through a deconstruction plan that at least 65 percent of
material by weight from deconstruction of the existing structure, including concrete and
asphalt, will be diverted from the landfill. Verification of deconstruction plan
compliance must be provided prior to final inspection. No person shall fail to follow or
otherwise implement an approved deconstruction plan
K:~plbib-7570.179.doc Agenda Item Page
Section 3. Subsection 10-7.5-4(a), B.R.C. 1981, is amended to read:
10-7.5-4 Resource Conservation -Green Points
(a) Schedule for Green Points. Residential building permit applicants are required to eam
green points according to the schedule in Table 2. An antilicant uronosine to increase the
floor area of the existine buildine by more than 100 vercent shall be required to eam the
amount of Breen voints required for the new construction of a new dwelline of the same
size of the existine dwelline with such addition.
TABLE 2 -Green Points Requirements
Project Description Square Footage Green Point
Thresholds Requirements z
New constructlon of single unit dwellings 1,501-3,000 20
3,001-5,000 40
5,001 and up 60
Additions to a dwelling 500- 1,000 15
1,001- 2,000 20
2,001- 3,000 30
3,001 and up 45
Interior remodels of a dwelling 500 - 1,000 10
1,001- 2,000 I S
2,001 - 3,000 20
3,001 and up 30
Multi-unit Dwellings: fmal tenant fmish 1,001- 2,000 10
of a unit in a multi-unit dwelling
2,001 - 3,000 20
3,001 and up 30
1 One green point is awazded for each HERS rating score below the HERS index rating
requirement.
z The green point values listed in Subsections 10-7.5-4(e) and (f) only apply to those projects that
aze not required to have a HERS index rating.
s Each dwelling in a multi-unit dwelling shall be required to meet the green point requirements
sepazately.
x:~,imw-~s~o.i~9.a~ Agenda Item Page
Section 4. Subsection 10-7.5-4(e), B.R.C. 1481, is amended to read:
(e) Ener~v Efficiency.
(1) Insulation. Points will be awarded according to the following:
(A) Minimum R-19 cavity plus R-5 sheathing wall insulation: 2 points.
(B) Minimum R-49 ceiling: 2 points.
(C) Exterior minimum R-10 insulation installed for the full height of a
basement or foundation wall: 2 Points
(D) Insulated Pre-cast Concrete Foundation: 2 points
(E) Insulated Concrete Forms: 2 points
(2) Windows: Up to 10 points. New windows or replacement windows installed as
part of a remodel or an addition. Points will be awarded as follows:
(A) Nafional Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC): Up to 5 points. Rated
Window with Maximum U Value of 8-3~~or lower:.5 point for each
window, up to 5 points.
(B) NFRC Rated Window with Maximum Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
(SHGC) of 0.55: .5 point for each window, up to 5 points. Exception:
South facing glass.
(3) Air Sealing of an Existing Building. Points will be awazded when a HERS rating;
is applied to the existing structure preconstruction, then a post rating after
construction showing:
(A) Ten percent net increase in initial HERS rating*: 2 points
(B) No net increase in initial HERS rating*: 3 points
(C) Decrease in initial HERS rating*: 5 points
*Because of the vaziability of existing construction, projecting the final HERS
rating can be difficult and planning for contingencies if the planned HERS rating
is not achieved should be done.
(4) Heating, Venfilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems. Points will be
awazded according to the following:
(A) HVAC Commissioning: 3 points. Tesfing for duct leakage, firing rate, and
refrigerant chazge.
(B) Ground Source Heat Pump: Up to 10 points. Points will be awazded
according to the following:
(i) 30-39% calculations from a heating! cooling load bin analysis:
4 points
(ii) 40-49% calculations from aheating/ cooling load bin analysis:
6 points
(iii) 50-59% calculations from a heating cooling load bin analysis:
8 points
x:~im~o-7s~o.ne.a°o Agenda Item # r Page
(iv) 60-69% calculations from aheating/ cooling load bin analysis:
10 points
(C) Dsect Vent Combination Space/Water Heating System: 2 points
(D)
~c~Zoned, Hydronic Radiant Heating: 2 points
(P~ Passive Cooling: 2-5 points (one point per item). Points will be awarded
for passive cooling systems using any two or more of the techniques
described below:
(i) Exterior vertical shading devices for east and west facing glass.
(ii} Reflective films or glass on east and west facing windows.
(iii) Radiant, heat-reflective barriers installed in the attic space.
(iv) Landscaping that shades east and west-facing glazing during the
cooling season (June to September).
(v) South window overhang sized to effectively shade the window
during the cooling season (June to September) from June to
September.
(C~ Whole House Fan: 2 points
(Fly Evaporative Cooling: 3 points
(5) Water Heater.
(A) Tank-less Water Heater: 2 points
(B) Point-of--Use Water Heater: 2 points
(6) Lighting, Appliances, and Electricity.
(A) ENERGY STAR Advanced Lighting Package (ALP): 5 Points. The ALP
shall meet the following minimum specifications.
High-Use Rooms Kitchen, Dining Room, Living 50% of Total Number of Fixtures
Room, Family Room
Bathroom(s), Hall(s)/Stairway(s)
Medium/Low-Use Bedroom, Den, Office, Basement, 25% of Total Number of Fixtures
Rooms IaundryRoom, Gazage, Closet(s)
and al] other rooms
Outdoor Lighting Affixed to the
Outdoor structure or Free-Standing Pole(s) 50% of Total Number of Fixtures
Except for landscape and solaz including all flood lighting
lighting
R:y,tb;~o-~s~o.;~e.aoc Agenda Item #w F Page
(B) Efficient Light Controls: Up to 2 points. Efficient lighting controls include
occupancy sensors, dimming controls, and automatic daylight dinmvng
controls.
(i) 4 control devices: 1 point
(ii) 6 control devices: 2 points
(C) Energy-Efficient Appliances: Up to 6 Points. Points aze awazded
according to the following:
(i) ENERGY STAR rated refiigerator: 2 points
(ii) ENERGY STAR rated clothes washer: 2 points
(iii) ENERGY STAR rated freezer: 1 point
(iv) ENERGY STAR rated dishwasher: 1 point
Section 5. Subsection 10-7.5-4(i), B.R.C. 1981, is amended to read:
(i) Sustainable Products.
(1) FSC-Certified Tropical Woods or No Tropical Wood: Up to 6 Points. Points wil}.
be awazded as follows:
(A) 2 BF of FSC lumber per SQ/F'I' of floor area (2 BF/SQ. FT.): 2 points
(B) 3 BF of FSC lumber per SQ/FT of floor area (3 BF/SQ. FT.): 4 points
(C) 50% or more of dimensional lumber in total BF is FSC, excluding
engineered wood products: 6 points
(2) Environmentally Preferred Materials: Up to ] 0 Points. Points will be awazded
environmentally preferred materials as follows:
(A) Recycled content: 2 points
(B) Reclaimed: 2 points
(C) Bio-based: 2 points
(D) Agricultural residue: 2 points
(E) Low or no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emissions: 2 points
(3) Locally Sourced Materials: Products that aze environmentally preferable and/or
extracted, processed, and manufactured within 500 miles of the city aze
considered local. A maximum of 1.5 points can be earned for any single
component listed in the Environmentally Preferable Products Chazt regazdless of
the amount by which a minimum performance threshold is exceeded. A "recycled
content" product must contain a minimum of 25%post-consumer recycled
content except as noted otherwise above. Post industrial (pre-consumer) recycled
content is counted at half the rate ofpost-consumer content. Points will be
awarded as shown on the Environmentally Preferable Products Chart below:
K:~plblo-7570.179.doc Agenda Item Page 1,~_
ENVIIZONMENTALLY PREFERABLE PRODUCTS CHART
Assembly Component Product Specification Types (see Note 1)
Specifications Emission Specifications Local
Exterior Framing FSC-certified X
Wall
Exterior Framing Finger- 3{
Wall jointed studs
(vertical use
only for
stntctural
components) .
Exterior Siding or Recycled X`
Wall masonry content or
FSC-certified
Floor Flooring Linoleum, Carpet & pad: comply with Carpet and X
cork, Rug Institute's Green Label Plus
bamboo, Program
FSC-certified
or reclaimed
wood, sealed
concrete,
recycled-
content
flooring, or
combination
in 45% of
home's floor
azea.
Floor Flooring BONUS 1/2 BONUS 1/2 for NO carpet in home
for 90% of
home
Floor Framing FSC-certified X
Feuxdatien Aggfegate X
Foundation Cement Fly ash or X
slag as
replacement
for, not
addition to,
cement
content (min.
K:~plbib-7570.179.doc Agenda Item #_~iE Page ~ -
30%)
Interior Framing FSC-certified X
Wall
Interior Framing Finger- X
Wall Jointed,
(vertical use
only for
structural
components)
Interior Gypsum Recycled X
Walls boazd content
AND
ceilings
Interior Paint Comply with Green Seal Standazd GS-
Walls 11, Paints, First Edition, May 20, 1993
AND
millwork
Interior Wood VOC concentrations of 150 gpl or less
Walls finishes
AND
millwork
Landscape Decking or Recycled X
patio content or
material FSC-certified
Other Cabinets Recovered, Wood and/or agrifiber products with no X
recycled added urea-formaldehyde resins
content, or
FSC-certified
Other Counters Recycled Wood and/or agrifiber products with no
content added urea-formaldehyde resins
Other Doors (not Recycled Wood and/or agrifiber products with no X
incl. content or added urea-formaldehyde resins
garage) FSC-certified
Other Trim Recovered, Wood and/or agrifiber products with no
recycled added urea-formaldehyde resins
content, or
FSC-certified
Other Adhesives VOC concentrations of 70 gpl or less
and
sealants
K:~plbib7570.179.doc Agenda Item Page Zo _
Other Windows Recycled X
content or
FSC-certified
Roof Framing FSC-certified X
Roof Roofing Recycled X.
content or
vegetated
(min. 200 sf)
Roof AND Insulation Recycled Comply with State of California, DHS, X
floor AND content (min "Practice for Testing of VOCs from
wall 20%) Building Materials using Small
Chambers"
Roof, Sheathing Recycled X
floor, wall content or
(2 of 3) FSC-certified
Section 6. Section 10-7.5-7, B.R.C. 1981, is amended by a new definition and changes to
other definitions, to read:
"Addition" An extension or increase in floor azea of a building or structure of 500 sq. ft. or ,
greater.
"Demolition'~r "demolish" means ann act or process which removes one or more of the
followine The shaded azea illustrates the maximu_m_ amount that maybe removed without
constitutine demolition.
Fiftv percent or more of the roof azea as measured in rolan view (see diaeram)•
K:\plblo-7570.179.doc Agenda Item Page 21
21~ percent or more of the exterior walls of a buildine as measured contieuously azound_
the "buildine coveraee" as defined in this section (see diaazam): or
A wall shall meet the following minimum standazds to be considered a retained exterior
wall:
(A) The wall shall retain studs or other structural elements. the exterior wall finish.
the fully framed and sheathed roof above that portion of the remainine
uildine to which such wall is attached:
B) The wall shall not be covered or otherwise concealed by a wall that is proposed U~
be placed in front of the retained wall: and
C) Each part of the retained exterior walls shall be connected contleuously and
without interruption to every other Hart of the retained exterior walls.
"Remodel" means an interior reconfiguration or upgrade of an existing structure of 500 sq.ft. or
greater and the work required to complete the reconfiguration or upgrade requires a building
permit.
Section 7. This ordinance is necessary to protect the public health, safety, and welfaze of
the residents of the city, and covers matters of local concern.
Section 8. The city council deems it appropriate that this ordinance be published by title
only and orders that copies of this ordinance be made available in the office of the city clerk for
public inspection and acquisition.
x:~Pm~~~s~o.t~9.ao~ Agenda Item E _ Page 2 Z _
INTRODUCED, READ ON FIRST READING, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED BY
TITLE ONLY this 13th day of November, 2007.
Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk on behalf of the
Director of Finance and Record
READ ON SECOND READING, PASSED, ADOPTED, AND ORDERED
PUBLISHED BY TITLE ONLY this 22nd day of January, 2008.
Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk on behalf of the
Director of Finance and Record
K:\plbib-7570.179.doc Agenda Item Page Z 3
ATTACHMENT B
Proposed Improvements for Energy Makeover House in Boulder
1102 Portland Place, Boulder, 80304
Insulation/Air-Sealing
o Drill and dense-pack the walls of the house -main and 2"° floor's- with cellulose
insulation. The wall all have 3.5" cavities that are void of insulation except +-20 foot
length of west wall and bay window on the main floor (in the office) that only has a
1.5" cavity. The homeowners have approved having 2" to 2.5" holes drilled on the
interior side of the walls. Insulate upstairs knee walls also.
o Cut a permanent attic access into the main floor ceiling at the south-end of the house
that has no 2"d floor above it and blow-in cellulose insulation to achieve at least an R-
401eve1. Also, insulate and weatherstrip the access door; there should be a minimum
of R-30 on the door.
o Blow-in at least 8.5" of cellulose into the attic above the 2nd floor to achieve ~an R-4(1
level. The attic already has 3" of rockwool (R-9). Also, insulate and weatherstrip the
access door; there should be a minimum of R-30 on the door.
o Seal gaps and plumbing penetrations (flue, air intake, etc) in the crawlspace walls
with expansive foam.
o Install R-19 -kraft-faced- fiberglass into the rim/band joist in the crawlspace.
o Remove most of the debris and install 6 mil plastic as a vapor barrier on the
crawlspace floor that is sealed to the exterior walls (i.e., at least hammer-nailed to the
wall, ideally attached to wall with sealant) and has at least 12" of overlap at any
seams on the walls or floors (all seams should be taped with waterproof tape such as
Tyvek tape).
o Install either foil-faced R-10+ or perforated vinyl-faced R-11+ fiberglass onto the
walls of the crawlspace.
o Window/coal drop on west side of crawlspace should be sealed up and insulated)
o Furnace and hot water heaters' make-up air intake should be made a u-trap at least
18" from top opening to bottom of "u"
o Seal gap in baseboard near kitchen living room door with expanding foamlcaulk
o Seal floor to wall connection in upstairs kitchen closets with caulk.
o Seal electrical penetrations between back porch/stairwell and porch roof cavity with
expanding foam
o Seal plumbing penetration and closet rod penetration in upstairs bedroom closet with
expanding foam
AGENDA ITEM#~PAGE~
Windows/Doors
o Replace all windows with Low-e, double-pane with Heat Mirror Accent windows on
at least the north, east and west windows. If possible, the south windows should have
the "high solar heat-gain coefficient" glass, manufactured by PPG, to enhance the
passive solar gain during winter, spring and fall.
o Replace the front, back, and upstairs porch door with foam-filled (-R-S+) doors
Furnace & Water Heater
o Once the homeowner has removed the existing furnace, install a 94+% efficient,
variable speed American Standard furnace. Once the energy rating is complete we
can give an approximate size for the furnace based on the estimated heat-load
calculation.
o Remove the existing water heaters and replace them with 1 or possibly 2 Rinnai
tankless water heaters -82+% efficient.
Lights
o The city of Boulder is providing CFL's for the entire house. Doug Parker and Lightly
Treading will determine the number and type of CFLs the house will need.
Water Savings
o The city of Boulder will replace the 2 toilets with duaUflush low flow toilets.
o Faucet flow restrictors. Low flow showerheads.
AGENDA ITEM #~PAGE~~