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Title: DOE Residential Energy Code Field Study - Pennsylvania

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/1457683· OSTI ID:1457683
 [1]
  1. Performance Systems Development of New York, LLC., Ithaca, NY (United States)

This project consisted of three distinct phases – all focused on residential one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. Phase 1 included a baseline field study with inspections and performance testing to assess construction practices with respect to the energy code. PNNL used the data to perform EUI and savings potential analyses. Phase 2 consisted of training, education, and outreach to building industry professionals with content based on the findings from Phase 1. Phase 3 was a post-program field study using the same methodology as Phase 1 and was intended to measure the impact of Phase 2. During Phase 1 of the project, PSD collected data from 171 job sites across eastern Pennsylvania, a territory bounded by PECO, PPL, and Met-Ed electric distribution territories, to reach the required 63 “home equivalents” deemed necessary by PNNL for a representative sample. Based on subsequent analysis, four key items were identified as having significant savings potential from improvement in compliance, including duct leakage, above-grade wall insulation (specifically insulation installation quality), foundation insulation, and high-efficacy lighting. About half the total savings potential is from duct leakage, so that was the primary focus. The goal of Phase 2 was to improve upon these key compliance weaknesses through an intensive training, education, and outreach program. PSD dubbed this effort the Penn Energy Codes Program. For Phase 3, PSD obtained a new sample plan from PNNL, obtained permit data from sample municipalities, and made substitutions where necessary. PSD field staff visited 165 job sites to collect the required 504 key observations. PSD submitted all data collection sheets to PNNL for their analysis to determine if there was a measurable change due to Phase 2 activities.

Research Organization:
Performance Systems Development of New York, LLC., Ithaca, NY (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Energy Efficiency Office. Building Technologies Office
DOE Contract Number:
EE0006757
OSTI ID:
1457683
Report Number(s):
DOE-PSD-006757
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English