programs SECO

Single-Family Construction

2015 International Residential Code, Chapter 11

Effective Sept. 1, 2016, SECO adopted the Energy Efficiency Chapter 11 of the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC) as the state’s Building Energy Efficiency Performance Standards for residential construction (i.e., one- and two-family residences three stories or fewer above grade).

The Energy Rating Index Compliance Alternative

New to the 2015 IRC is the Energy Rating Index (ERI) Compliance Alternative. The Texas Health and Safety Code §388.003 allows this optional compliance method that uses an ERI as follows:

For Climate Zone 2, an energy rating index of:

  • 65 or lower from Sept. 1, 2016 to Aug. 31, 2019
  • 63 or lower from Sept. 1, 2019 to Aug. 31, 2022
  • 59 or lower on or after Sept. 1, 2022

For Climate Zone 3, an energy rating index of:

  • 65 or lower from Sept. 1, 2016, to Aug. 31, 2019
  • 63 or lower from Sept. 1, 2019, to Aug. 31, 2022
  • 59 or lower on or after Sept. 1, 2022

For Climate Zone 4, an energy rating index of:

  • 69 or lower from September 1, 2016, to August 31, 2019
  • 67 or lower from September 1, 2019, to August 31, 2022
  • 63 or lower on or after September 1, 2022

Statutory reference: Health and Safety Code §388.003

Code History
Effective Dates Codes
Prior to 1999 No mandatory statewide energy code.
Sept. 1, 2001 – Dec. 31, 2011 2000 IECC (with 2001 supplement)
Jan. 1, 2012 – Present 2009 IRC, Chapter 11
Sept. 1, 2016 2015 IRC, Chapter 11