SOME BACKGROUND to the Climate Leader program and the Specialized Stretch Code.
In 2015 Warwick voted to adopt the existing stretch code to allow us to participate in DOER’s Green Communities programs. Since then, we have received over $735,000 in grant funded improvements to our town buildings. The stretch code continues to be revised and as a Green Community we are beholden to the revisions. This “opt-in” article refers only to add-ons for NEW construction only. If adopted, it will allow the town to apply for “Climate Leader” status and open up funding for solar panels on all suitable town buildings that will offset the fuel costs of the continued electrification of heating systems. Funding for other community benefits not covered by the current Green Communities program will also become available.
Of the 351 cities and towns in MA, 253 fall under the existing stretch code and 48 have already adopted the Specialized stretch code.
Here is a table that explains what is involved for low-rise residential buildings. Note that the Specialized stretch code only affects new mixed-fuel homes:
| Energy Source(s) | Home Size | Stretch code (July 2024) | Specialized Code (Jan 2024) |
| All Electric New Homes | Any Size home | HERS 45 or Passivehouse | |
| Mixed-Fuel New Homes | Under 4,000 sq ft | HERS 42 | +Solar PV (min 4kw) + wiring for electrification |
| 4,000 sq ft and over | HERS 42 | + Solar PV (to net-zero) + wiring for electrification | |
| Any | Passivehouse option | + wiring for electrification | |
| Home additions & alterations | Any | Same as Stretch code | |
| Historic or Existing homes | Any | Energy Code exemption if it would damage the historic fabric of the building | |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. Does the Opt-In Specialized Code apply to existing structures?
No. Improvements to existing structures, depending on size, are regulated by the Updated Stretch Code and Base Code.
2. Will the Opt-In-Specialized Code discourage the creation of affordable housing?
No. Federal, State and Utility incentives will continue to encourage affordable housing while the Opt-In Specialized Code delivers benefits by lowering future energy bills and upgrade costs. All-electric homes are cheaper to build in the first place.
3. Is it possible to install an oil boiler, propane cooktop or water heater?
Yes. This is permitted under the Mixed Fuel pathways.
4. Why adopt the Opt-In Specialized Code?
It requires pre-wiring, avoiding costly retrofits down the road and expediting electrification. It will unlock more grant funding to improve town buildings & for residential energy-saving programs.
Here are the slides from the recent public forum on the ‘Climate Leader’ grant opportunity and the Specialized Stretch code (to be voted on at Town Meeting on 5/05).