Since October 2023, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has participated in a multi-stakeholder project aimed at developing a resilient energy code for multi-family affordable housing units. The technical provisions of the code support the installation of climate resilient energy systems including solar, storage, and more efficient heating and cooling equipment. These systems can maintain living conditions and power essential services for affordable housing residents sheltering in place during grid outages. A draft of the Connecticut Climate Resilient Energy code for Multifamily Affordable Housing is now open for public feedback until June 27, 2025. Comments on the draft code may be submitted to comments@cleanegroup.org.
Often, multi-family housing lacks a back-up power source which leads to building system mechanical failures. Residents, for example, with mobility challenges cannot use elevators to exit the building. Moreover, medically challenged residents may find that life-dependent electrically powered medical equipment is inoperable. The buildings that are constructed to this voluntary code can provide power during an electric outage. Therefore, allowing residents to more easily leave the building, or stay in place while maintaining a level of health and safety.
The project is being conducted by an integrated team led by Clean Energy Group in partnership with American Microgrid Solutions, the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, the Connecticut Green Bank, the Connecticut Insurance Department, New Buildings Institute, Operation Fuel, and the Yale Center on Climate Change and Health, along with analytical support from Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.
The final Connecticut Climate Resilient Energy Code will be published in late 2025. Please see the draft publication announcement for additional information.