Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0766.004 2008-2010Yoshimoto, J From: Nick Fedan [nick @fedan.net] Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 3:21 PM To: jyoshimoto @co.hawaii.hi.us Subject: FW: New building code for energy - efficiency Aloha Mr. Yoshimoto, Page 1 of 1 I would like to refer to the proposed delay in the implementation of the new building code changes introduced by Emily Naeole- Beason. I have experience building in the State of Washington, California, and Hawaii, and have been completely puzzled by the code proposal. I cannot but wonder who will that code benefit the most? Perhaps the sellers and installers of insulation and drywall? Has anyone done a benefit -cost analysis aimed at showing benefits for the citizens? In an environment like Hawaii where no air conditioning and no heating is required except in very few places like Waimea, why is such a sweeping change contemplated? I could understand if the new requirements are restricted to construction in higher elevations experiencing lower temperatures. But how about those living in locations with more typical temperature ranges that very seldom dip below 60 degrees? The single -wall construction "plantation- style" homes with large screened areas that allow breezes to flow freely allows natural cooling in summer. It seems the new requirements would disallow such designs, thereby requiring air - conditioning in the warmer months, thus increasing, not decreasing, energy use. So perhaps I would add the air - conditioning industry to those benefitting from the code change. Certainly not the • rest of us. I urge you to support a delay in the implementation of the code change to allow for a better examinanation of the consequences. Thank you, N. Fedan, Hamakua Coast 3/29/2010 C o TO TI y rc Comm No ( 1°b . `f Ref. To: f /-' Ref. Date . APR 7 7fl