Pima Supports Proposed Ashrae Efficiency Increase

The Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association (PIMA) is in full support of addenda “bb” to ASHRAE Standard 90.1 – 2007. This addendum would raise the thermal requirements for commercial buildings, thus improving the efficiency minimum for various components of the building envelope.

While there are recognizable benefits to increasing the efficiency of HVAC, lighting, water and other systems, there are no performance characteristics from these improvements that match the longevity of envelope upgrades. The envelope improvements are the cornerstone of the overall predictability of long-term building performance and hence the foundation for meeting the zero energy goal for the nation’s buildings in 2030.

“The building envelope is the essential first step in achieving much needed efficiency improvements – especially since the envelope decisions often last for the life of the building while HVAC and other systems may be replaced many times over the building’s life expectancy,” said Jared O. Blum, president of PIMA. “We are pleased ASHRAE has recognized the cost effectiveness of additional roof and wall insulation in all commercial buildings, and are equally encouraged by ASHRAE’s goal of improving the nation’s minimum commercial building energy efficiency standard by at least 30 per cent.”

To illustrate its support for Addendum “bb” PIMA and its members have filed comments with ASHRAE. In the comments, PIMA noted its work to improve America’s buildings’ energy performance in a multitude of forums – through codes, standards, incentives and over fiscal policy encouraging higher efficiency goals. Most recently, PIMA commented in favour of ASHRAE’s initial increase of thermal values for roofs and walls embodied in the 2007 90.1 standard adopted formally by ASHRAE last year.

“The nation remains focused on economic recovery,” Blum said. “Improvements to existing buildings – especially improving the minimum standards that govern improvements to the building envelope – have a lasting effect on the building, the economy and overall energy security.”

For more information, visit the PIMA web site at www.polyiso.org .