For Houston builders, going 'green' won't be optional

[Dover]

April 28, 2008, 11:10PM
For Houston builders, going 'green' won't be optional


Houston builders will have to incorporate "green" design techniques such as heat-trapping vestibules and "cool roofs" that deflect sunlight under a proposed new energy code for commercial buildings.

The City Council could pass the new code for commercial buildings on Wednesday. A new residential code also is being developed and could come before the council next month.

Houston adopted its first energy codes in 2002 in response to a state mandate. This would be the first update, and it is decidedly more "green" than its predecessor.

"Obviously, with energy prices increasing, everybody's concerned that the building stock be efficient and not contributing to more emissions at the power plants," said Sheila Blake, an assistant director for code enforcement in the city's Department of Public Works and Engineering.

If passed, the new code would apply to all new construction of commercial buildings as well as residential buildings of more than three stories. It's adapted from a 2004 code created by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

The code would require simple things like covers for heated pools. But it delves into specific material requirements for required "cool roofs" that absorb less solar radiation. Acceptable types of window glass would have to strike a balance between energy insulation and a good view, Blake said....>

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/metro/5737872.html

[ChazII]

1. Interesting article.

I was always puzzled why building here in Phx. were built with no regard to our summer heat. Glass building are senseless in a desert environment. imho.