Nevada - Model Energy Code

Model Energy Code

The Model Energy Code (MEC) is a national minimum standard for energy efficient residential construction developed by the Council of American Building Officials. The 1992 version of the Model Energy Code has been incorporated into the Clark County, City of Las Vegas, and the City of Henderson’s building energy code. The 1995 version of the code as been incorporated into the Boulder City, City of Reno and Lyon County codes. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Rural Economic and Community Development (Department of Agriculture), and Veterans Administration also requires that new homes meet the requirements of the 1992 version of the MEC for their home mortgage programs. It is important to note that the MEC sets minimum levels for energy efficiency and it is very cost-effective to exceed these minimum standards. Many builders throughout Nevada regularly build homes that significantly exceed the code.

The Model Energy Code sets minimum energy standards for a new home’s envelope, and mechanical system based upon the area’s climate. MEC is flexible in that it allows trade-offs between insulation levels, windows, and heating and cooling systems. Air sealing of the building envelope and of the ducts are also required.