Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

High Performance (Green) Building Standards for
State Agency Buildings and School Buildings

2023 Update-Connecticut High Performance Buildings

Connecticut’s green construction standards help achieve the state’s greenhouse gas emission (GHG), energy, and cost reduction goals while driving economic growth.  The Connecticut General Assembly passed Public Act 19-35 , titled “The Green Economy and Environmental Protection” bill, which amended the state building construction statute (CGS §16a-38k). Now, DEEP is required to adopt high performance building regulations (HPBS) that incorporate by reference a national sustainable construction code.

DEEP has recently completed its review of the nationally recognized green model codes. The 2021 International Green Construction Code (IgCC) with amendments will serve as the states modernized HPBS.  This sustainable building code delivers buildings that have fewer negative impacts on the environment.  These buildings produce fewer GHG emissions, use less energy, support better indoor air quality, and improve occupant comfort. DEEP staff are drafting these modernized green construction standards now.

Until the state adopts the new green construction standards, projects are required to comply with the current HPBS. Project compliance with the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code satisfies the energy performance requirement. Please use these resources to support project compliance. HPBS Compliance Manual, DAS Capital Projects HPBS, and HPBS School Construction Form.

Background

Since 2007, Connecticut law has mandated high performance efficiency buildings (CGS § 16a-38k). As required, DEEP has adopted high performance (Green) building construction regulations that incorporate design, construction, and operation practices that preserve the natural environment (RCSA 16a-38k 1-9).  These state construction standards are consistent with, or in some cases, have exceeded the Leadership in Energy and Environment (LEED) silver design building rating system.

Connecticut High Performance Building Standards Apply to:
State Facilities

The project bond funds were allocated after Jan 1, 2008.

            New Construction
            Projected cost greater than, or equal to $5 million.

            Renovation

            Projected cost greater than, or equal to $2 million.

Public Schools

The project funds were authorized on or after Jan 1, 2009.

            New Construction
            Projected cost greater than, or equal to $5 million, with $2 million or more in state funding.

            Renovation
            Projected cost greater than, or equal to $2 million, with $2 million or more in state funding.

 

Contact: Michele Melley, Bureau of Energy and Technology Policy, 860-827-2621, Michele.L.Melley@ct.gov.

Additional Resources - The 2021 International Green Construction Code

 

Content last updated March 2023