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Massachusetts Stretch Code
As of January 2023, Massachusetts has new Energy Code that residential or commercial new construction or renovations/additions must follow. The code builds on existing IECC (International Energy Code Council) 2021 requirements with more stringent energy efficiency standards. New construction must have a HERS score of 52 or below, installed HRV or ERV ventilation systems, and built-in wiring for an electric vehicle. Renovations/additions that alter more than 1,000 sq ft of the existing building must also achieve 52 HERS.
Specialized Energy Code
Many municipalities in Greater Boston have adopted Specialized Energy Code that requires a HERS score of 42 or below. By July 2024, all municipalities in the Commonwealth will be required to follow the Specialized Code.
Residential Specialized Code Requirements:
Size | Fuel | Minimum Efficiency | Solar PV Requirement? | EV Wiring Requirement? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Multi-family > 12,000 sf | Mixed (natural gas + electric) | PHIUS Core* | Optional | 20% of parking spaces |
Multi-family > 12,000 sf | Electric | PHIUS Core* | Optional | 20% of parking spaces |
Single-family > 4,000 sf | Mixed (natural gas + electric) | HERS 0 or PHIUS Core* | Yes | Yes |
Single-family > 4,000 sf | Electric | HERS 45 or PHIUS Zero* | Optional | Yes |
Single-family up to 4,000 sf | Mixed (natural gas + electric) | HERS 42 or PHIUS Core* | Yes | Yes |
Single-family up to 4,000 sf | Electric | HERS 45 or PHIUS Core* | Optional | Yes |
*PHIUS (Passive House Institute US) building standards refer to PHIUS Zero– net zero energy usage with renewable energy– or PHIUS Core, an energy efficiency standard that does not require renewables.
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