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Committee places Illinois Stretch Energy Code ordinance for introduction, staff cites CEJA pathway
Summary
The committee voted to place for introduction an ordinance adopting the Illinois Stretch Energy Code (above the 2021 base code). Staff said the optional stretch code was established under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act and would require electric- and solar-readiness and higher efficiency for new construction.
The Administration and Public Works Committee voted to place an ordinance on file that would amend City Code Title 4, Chapter 19 to adopt the Illinois Stretch Energy Code — an optional, more stringent pathway above the 2021 Illinois Energy Conservation Code.
Andrew Sanram, building and development services manager, told the committee the stretch code was developed under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act and is an optional, local adoption pathway that requires additional energy-efficiency measures for new construction, additions and alterations. "The state has developed an additional pathway, an Illinois Stretch Energy Code that goes above and beyond to the Base Energy Code, and it's optional for municipalities to adopt," Sanram said.
Sanram said the stretch code includes provisions to require electric readiness (for example, electric service and conduit to support future electric stoves) and solar-ready rooftop space and junction-box provisions. He said the code does not require existing, unchanged portions of buildings to be retrofitted and does not apply to public schools, which follow their own state energy regulations.
Council members discussed outreach to building owners and financing tools. Council member Burns supported adopting the stretch code but recommended staff incorporate feedback from building owners and noted financing options such as programs and low-interest financing that can help owners retrofit or comply with efficiency measures.
The committee voted to place the ordinance for introduction by voice vote with no opposition. Staff and council members said further discussion could follow on whether the city should adopt even more stringent measures at a later time.
