SPFA Finishes Environmental Product Declaration for SPF
As a continuing step toward effective product and environmental stewardship, SPFA and Underwriters Laboratory Environment (ULe) conducted the necessary steps to complete an SPF Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), which further validates the 2012 release of the SPF Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This Declaration, along with the LCA, are recognized by sustainability experts as additional verification of a product’s environmental performance. The EPD is maintained on the ULe website, available at www.sprayfoam.org/technical. The LCA is available there, as well.
 SPFA Delivers New WebsiteIn late 2013 SPFA released a newly redesigned website. The site offers even more useful information to members, the industry and the public on SPF benefits, performance and safety. It is much more user friendly and delivers resources to SPF professionals that will aid in increasing the success of their businesses. www.sprayfoam.org
SPFA Publishes Cold-Climate Hybrid Insulation Guidelines for Zones 4-7
In a continuing effort among the SPFA Building Envelope Committee (BEC) to issue guidance materials on hybrid insulation, additions to the previously published Hybrid Guidelines are soon available for download by members. The new content covers "cold-climate" Zones 4-7 and recently received approval from the SPFA Technical Oversight Committee (TOC). Members recognized that, while SPF is typically the insulation of choice, the marketplace practice of producing hybrid insulation systems is prevalent and would benefit from consideration of related issues. A Hybrid Insulation System is a combination of insulation types typically arranged so the SPF insulation acts as an air barrier and/or a vapor retarder, and the other insulation type contributes by adding R-value. The document will be available in the Member Only section of the website and a link will be sent to members as soon as the document is posted.
SPFA Completes New Worksite Safety Signs   SPFA recently completed two new safety signs for restricted access to worksites (No Entry and No Hot Work). These safety signs, produced by the SPFA Safety Committee, will be offered to the membership in the Members Only section of the website, and samples will be provided in the convention bags at the 2014 SPFA SprayFoam Convention & Expo. Digital files will be available for companies to download and print for their use. These signs should be used on all worksites to aid in compliance with the OSHA NEP and Hazard Communication.
Massachusetts SPF Workshop
In December 2013 SPFA participated with a broad segment of the industry in a Massachusetts state sponsored workshop. The workshop was attended by a variety of public and private organizations looking to promote health, safety and performance of SPF, as well as the SPFA PCP certification program throughout the state. Four more such workshops are being scheduled in the state for 2014. http://1.usa.gov/1eOMbKy
SPFA Committee Updates
>>Building Envelope Committee (BEC) – Mark Fortney, Gaco-Western, chair
On October 2, the BEC met in-person in Tucson, Ariz. Ten members attended. The committee members present approved a new hybrid insulation guide for cold climates and a code-compliant installation certificate to include insulation and fire-protective coatings. These documents will be published by SPFA within the next several weeks. In addition, an industry-level Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for SPF is complete and will be available on the UL Environment website later this year. New BEC projects include developing a foam thickness measurement procedure, extending AY-140 to include interior basement wall application, and working with the metal building industry to update our metal buildings guidance document. A new research project to measure the compatibility of SPF with low voltage wiring will be started this year. The next BEC meeting will be by teleconference on January 13, 2014.
>>Roofing Committee (RC) – Roger Morrison, Deer Ridge Consulting, chair
The RC met by teleconference on October 22. Included in the agenda was an update from the RICOWI and RoofPoint programs, an update on the new SPF Environmental Product Declaration. The Roofing Committee members present also selected three AY documents to update during the next year including AY-102, AY-127 and AY-110. Potential new projects discussed included developing a guidance document for SPF Roofing used with Photo-Voltaic installations and a guideline for SPF Roofing and Transition Membranes. The next meeting of the Roofing Committee will be an in-person meeting on February 25, 2014, one day before the International Roofing Exposition in Las Vegas.
>>Safety Committee (SC) – Joe Bolduc, Masco Contractor Services, chair
The SC met by teleconference on November 7. The primary goal of this meeting was to develop a comprehensive contractor safety program package free for SPFA members. This package will include templates for a Written Safety Program, a Respiratory Protection program, safety training and accident recording, among other items. The SC also discussed ways to help member contractors prepare for OSHA’s new National Emphasis Program (NEP) for isocyanates, and made plans to finalize the new SPFA jobsite safety signs.
If you are interested in participating on any of the SPFA technical committees, please contact Rick Duncan, SPFA Technical Director ( rickduncan@sprayfoam.org) or any of the committee chairs listed above.
SPFA Commits Resources on Sprayfoam to Homebuilders
The SPFA Board announced a commitment to complete a builder’s checklist on SPF to improve SPF contractor – builder communication. The checklist, expected to be surpassed over time with more materials oriented toward the builders and customers, will offer useful information on installation quality, health and safety, typical planning considerations for a worksite, and highlight information about SPFA’s Professional Certification Program (PCP) to inform and empower builders on the topics that are most relevant to them.
"One of the most important things we can do as an industry to maintain a high level of quality, safety and OSHA compliance on the worksite is to coordinate with those other stakeholder industries that typically share the worksite with us," said Kurt Riesenberg, Executive Director of SPFA. "The relationship and communication between builder and sprayfoam contractor in the field is essential for success, and that is reflected in SPFA working with the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) to facilitate similar conversations across our industries," he continued.
Start Planning for SprayFoam Convention & Expo, Jan. 26-29, 2014
-Network and develop valuable connections.Join your industry for the SPF event of the year! Imagine the possibilities:
-Find solutions to your pressing business needs.
-Learn about advances in the SPF industry.
-Get the training you need to be the best.
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ACC Supports Bipartisan Senate Legislative Reforms to Strengthen EPA's Peer Review Panels
Senators Boozman (R-AR) and Manchin (D-WV) introduced legislation to reform the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency’s (EPA) Science Advisory Board (SAB) and its subcommittees. The
bipartisan EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act would improve the process for
selecting experts to serve on EPA’s scientific advisory panels and would
strengthen public participation in the reviews that serve as the foundation for
many important regulatory decisions. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators
Crapo (R-ID), Sessions (R-AL), Vitter (R-LA) and Wicker (R-MS).
3M Unveils State-of-the-Art Fall Protection Testing Facility
Source: 3M.com
3M unveiled a state-of-the-art testing facility for its expanding portfolio of fall protection solutions, complete with a research and development tower. The testing facility is located within 3M’s Fall Protection campus in Cottage Grove, Minn. At the new facility, 3M will test harnesses, connecting and anchorage devices, lifeline systems, confined space equipment, and escape and rescue products.
Housing Markets Continue to Show Gradual Improvement
Source: nahb.org
Markets in 56 out of the approximately 350 metro areas nationwide returned to or exceeded their last normal levels of economic and housing activity, according to the National Association of Home Builders/First American Leading Markets Index (LMI), released on Jan. 7. This represents a net gain of two from the previous month. The index’s nationwide score of .86 indicates that, based on current permits, prices and employment data, the nationwide average is running at 86 percent of normal economic and housing activity.
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 >>OSHA NEP Letter to SPFA
In late
October 2013 SPFA received a letter from OSHA Director Dr. Michaels referencing
the 2013-released OSHA National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Isocyanates, which is
available on the SPFA website: http://bit.ly/1iUOmBA. In the letter Dr.
Michaels requested that SPFA work to inform the SPF industry and SPFA members
of the tenets contained in the NEP. After four focused years of involvement,
SPFA continues to work on the members’ behalf with federal representatives to
develop and deliver practical, meaningful guidance leading to increased
contractor and customer safety, high performing installations, and compliance
with regulations. For more information on the NEP visit SPFA’s website under Health & Safety or attend the 2014 Convention session.
Source: polyurethane.americanchemistry.com
CPI released an updated Guidance for Developing a Written Respiratory Protection Program. This document provides regulatory background and a model respiratory program that addresses OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Program Standard (29 CFR ยง1910.134) which applies to all respirator use in general industry and construction workplaces. The program provides guidance on appropriate respirators, respirator use, storage, fit and evaluation.
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Expo App
Download the 2014 SprayFoam Convention & Expo app by scanning the QR code or visiting http://sprayfoam2014.quickmobile.mobi/. Or access it directly at the Apple App Market or Google Play Store (Android).
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The 2014 Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) Annual Convention and Expo is coming up! Every year the convention delivers to you, the SPF professional, the best of the best information available on the industry. SPFA’s promise is to capture the most current and relevant information and deliver an experience you will appreciate, remember, and that will have an impact upon your business.
>>2013 SPFA CONTRACTOR AWARDS
• ROOF FOAM GREATER THAN 40,000 FT SQ – West Roofing Systems, Inc.
• ROOF FOAM LESS THAN 40,000 FT SQ – Biofoam Inc.
>>SPEAKING SENSIBLY by Dr. Richard Duncan: SPF for Unvented Attics in Existing Buildings -- Application Guidelines Before, During and After Installation
Performing retrofit installations of SPF in existing buildings is a complex process. In addition to performing a quality SPF installation in a safe manner, addressing the comfort and safety of the occupants are critical.
>>LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: LEED Amendments by Craig Brightup, The Brightup Group LLC
>>BEHIND THE FOAM: John Guffey and Team Are Raisingthe SPF Bar with Energy One America
>>ABAA NEWS: Standards – Help or Hindrance? by Laverne Dalgleish
If you didn't receive this issue in the mail or via email and would like to be on future distribution lists, click here to sign up.
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>>Invitation to Attend
Happy New Year! You are personally invited to attend SPFA's SprayFoam Convention & Expo in beautiful Palm Springs Calif., Jan. 25-29, 2014. The conditions are perfect for a spectacular show and the speakers have assembled the best and most useful information for you to invest in yourself and your profession. If you need one more reason, look out your window. By contrast, the weather in Palm Springs is warm and sunny, like almost every other day there. Decide to register today and you'll feel warmer already! Get away, get informed, get certified, get refreshed, and start the year off right before work gets crazy by joining your fellow professionals in a celebration of sprayfoam. Nothing else is going to prepare you better for the challenges and opportunities in the year ahead. We, your fellow attendees, the speakers and the event sponsors are counting on you being present to make the event a huge success! It can't happen without you.
This is SPFA's singular best chance of the year to meet with you and facilitate the important conversations of the industry. To bring to you all the stuff we work on for you all year, and hear from you on the most important issues facing you as an industry professional. Register now!
For all the information you need about the SPFA 2014 Convention and Expo, visit the official convention website. Deep member discounts available for attendance and SPFA PCP Certification program tests, classes and Field Exams.
>>Convention Smartphone App
This year SPFA will improve your convention-going experience with an iPad, iPhone or Android Sprayfoam Convention 2014 App! Customize your experience by reviewing the entire schedule and selecting which events you want to use to create your own itinerary AND DON'T MISS A THING! Get background and contact info on the speakers, exhibitor information and map locations, check out sponsors, download convention documents or - gulp - even post a picture for everyone to see (rules of decency apply).
Download directly from the Apple App Market, Google Play Store (Android) or simply click below if reading this on your device:
>>Look for Your Challenge Coin A "challenge coin" is a small coin or medallion (typically military), bearing an organization's insignia or emblem and carried by the organization's members. Traditionally, they are given to prove membership when challenged and to enhance morale. In addition, they are also collected by service or other members. In practice, challenge coins are normally presented by unit commanders in recognition of special achievement by a member of the unit. They are also exchanged in recognition of visits to an organization. SPFA is beginning a new tradition this year. Starting in 2014 each convention will have a custom Challenge Coin minted, struck with the SPFA logo on one side and the unique year's convention logo on the other. These are heavy, 1.75" diameter, 3.5mm thick coins. They will each have a custom number on the side making your coin special, and we will use that number for giveaways (like the registration TVs) instead of the usual tickets. There might be some other surprises you can win if you present your coin when challenged. These are truly collector's items and can be displayed to show all the years of attendance you will rack up. Made by GraywaterOps, a U.S. based, 100% veteran-owned company. If you want the coin, you need to be at the show. One per person, it'll be waiting for you in your convention bag.
>>Critical Milestones and Information
  1. Convention and hotel registration is open. The Convention HQ - the beautiful Renaissance by Marriott Palm Springs Convention Hotel and Resort - has been sold out since December. Don't fret! Check with the Renaissance to see if any reservations have been cancelled. If not, there are several other hotels in the area. Palm Springs is not a big city so you will still have easy access to the convention. The Palm Springs Courtyard Marriott is still accepting reservations, as is the Hilton Palm Springs and Extended Stay America. There are also other options if you search for hotels near the Palm Springs Convention Center.
2. SPFA will be offering the PCP certification Field Exams for Master Installer levels of insulation and roofing at the convention this year. Field Exams will take place January 25-27, and will be hosted at a local SPFA member contractor’s facility in Palm Springs. Transportation will be provided. If you have been thinking about getting your Master Installer Certification Field Exam completed, this is the best time, place and chance to do it. Maybe stick around for the convention too! Register for PCP Field Exams, other PCP tests or the convention here.
For general information on the convention contained in the Attendee Brochure, including golf, speaking events, breakout session topics, networking receptions, PCP certification written and Field Exams, prices, etc. click here.
>>Thank You to Our Sponsors
Should your company want to become a valued sponsor, and receive all the benefits that come with that status, please click HERE to consider SPFA's 2014 Annual Convention & Expo Sponsorship Prospectus.
>>NOTE: Make the most of your convention and certification participation by saving some cash! Big discounts for members are available for everything from convention registration to certification exams. Join and become an SPFA member to get immediate discounts at the show, and then benefit from your membership for the entire rest of the year. Join.
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>>SPFA Says Goodbye to One of Us
On November 30, SPFA learned of the passing of our sales director at Naylor LLC, Rick Sauers. As a senior sales representative for Naylor in its Gainesville, Fla., office for more than 18 years, Rick was very successful at building relationships and selling, largely because of his drive to help others and find options that worked for everyone. Many people have been touched by Rick’s work, his dedication and help, his smile and sense of humor and his friendship. He will be missed.
>>SPFA Publishes Membership Brochure
Available on the SPFA website, the brochure highlights some of the various benefits of membership and activities of the organization as it pursues its mission to represent SPF professionals in areas of technical and environmental leadership, government advocacy, professional certification, industry promotion and outreach, and delivery of a world-class convention and expo. Please check out the brochure if you have been considering joining SPFA and support our mission to serve you. For more information or to access the application to join, please click here.
>>SPFA Membership Directory and Buyers' Guide
Members in good standing are listed in this publication, which was mailed to members in September. This directory is also available in a digital format here. The convenient digital format allows users to navigate and access the directory's content quickly and easily, on the road or in the office. Use the information provided to contact fellow SPFA members and industry partners throughout the year to share ideas, ask questions, or just stay in touch.
>>SPFA Member Benefits
SPFA knows there are lots of organizations out there that would like to have you in their membership. But if you are in, or getting into, the sprayfoam business, we are the place for you. We work hard to represent you well and give you value back for your support. Click here to find out more.
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>>Register TODAY for Field Exams or Written Tests at 2014 SPFA Convention!
Register TODAY to get your Field Exams or Written Tests for PCP certification done at the 2014 SPFA convention! Also offered at the show will be First Aid/CPR classes and ABAA Sprayfoam Certified Applicator Training for those that have already completed their PCP requirements but are looking for continuing education. View the schedule online and register.
>>SPFA Professional Certification Program (PCP) Updates
In 2013, the first year of the new SPFA Professional Certification Program (PCP), over 1,080 exams were administered to early-adopting SPF professionals in the United States and abroad, with the notable 1,000th test being completed in November 2013. Administered by Sprayfoam Nation, the test-taker was Roy Murphy of Cambridgeport Sprayfoam in Massachusetts. SPFA congratulates Roy and Cambridgeport for their commitment and dedication to excellence, along with all of the early-adopters of the PCP program.
The program, ISO 17024-compliant, has grown rapidly and is set to release a new component – the Contractor and Supplier Accreditation programs – in 2014. The new programs will allow entire companies to demonstrate their participation and commitment to the principles of the PCP program. See SPFA PCP details here.
To find out more about the program, enroll, register for a test, or get set up for one of the upcoming testing locations, email admin@spfapcp.org or call (866) 222-5000 and simply state what you want to do.
>>SPFA PCP Exam Preparatory Course, Written Examinations and Field Examinations
The Spray Foam Coalition (SFC) of the American Chemistry Council announced its support of the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance's (SPFA) new Professional Certification Program for sprayfoam applicators. The Coalition strongly supports this new program that will continue to expand the ongoing efforts of the spray polyurethane foam (SPF) industry to create the highest standards of quality and professionalism for its customers.
"The SPF industry has for many years and will continue to support the safe and appropriate use of SPF," said SFC Senior Director Lee Salamone. "SPFA has created a first-rate certification program to continually raise the bar on safety, performance, quality and professionalism among SPF industry professionals and help give building owners confidence when choosing an SPF applicator."
SPFA launched its new Professional Certification Program at the Spray Foam 2013 Convention & Expo. The program was developed in compliance with the ANSI/ISO 17024 standard. Individual certifications will be available at four different levels in the two categories of insulation and roofing. To become certified under SPFA's new program, individuals must pass an exam and meet various criteria for any level of certification they would like to achieve. It is a progressive program with each level based on the candidate passing the exam for the previous level.
SPF is an excellent insulation choice for building owners. It insulates and acts as an air barrier, both of which are critical to making buildings comfortable and reducing heating and cooling costs.
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Graco Inc. released a data tracking and collection kit for electric and hydraulic reactors called Graco InSite™. Graco InSite allows managers and owners of spray foam and polyurea application companies to view real-time job data from multiple jobsites. The data is transmitted from a Graco Reactor® proportioner via cellular network, and can be viewed on a smartphone, tablet or computer wherever a wireless connection can be established.
On the dashboard, you can see your entire fleet in real time. Colored icons show if reactors are spraying, idling or off. You can also check temperatures and pressures, follow spray rig locations via GPS, see how much material each crew is using and download report data. "Graco InSite is designed to help managers and owners of mid- and large-sized contracting companies do the impossible: be everywhere at once," explained Sara McKeon, Graco product marketing manager.
"With Graco InSite, they can confirm that crews started on time, verify that spray parameters are being met, see how much material is being used, troubleshoot, and even verify rig locations via GPS signal. And they can view it all on a wireless device, meaning they can do it from virtually anywhere."
Graco InSite works with most electric and hydraulic reactors for sprayfoam and polyurea applications (E-20, E-30, E-XP1, E-XP2, H-25, H-40, H-XP2, H-XP3). For details, visit www.gracoInSite.com or email info@graco.com.
Gaco Western introduced a new generation GacoFireStop2 Open Cell Foam. New GacoFireStop2 offers higher yields up to 15,000 board feet and better performance including improved sprayability and rise, excellent adhesion, and easy trimming. It contains high bio-renewable content for sustainability, plus GacoFireStop2 uses standard ISO which helps reduce product handling costs.
Just like original GacoFireStop, new GacoFireStop2 exceeds requirements for a Class 1 Foam and is AC377 Appendix X approved for installation in attics and crawl spaces with no additional ignition barrier needed. Unlike other open cell foams, with GacoFireStop2 the ignition barrier is built into the product itself, so can be left exposed in an attic or crawl space - AND meet code requirements.
"Contractors and builders will appreciate everything GacoFireStop2 offers: Higher yields, better product performance and the use of standard ISO all contribute to reduced cost, and the product continues to offer single step installation with no additional ignition barrier needed. Combine this with quick, easy code approval and new GacoFireStop2 is a win-win for our customers," stated Tom Sojak, Vice President, GacoWallFoam.
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ASHRAE Offers Opportunity to Comment on Proposed Guideline for Commissioning Existing Systems, Assemblies
Source: ashrae.org
With functional changes and occupant productivity driving the need to commission existing facilities, ASHRAE is developing a guideline that addresses the commissioning process. The guideline is open for public input until Jan. 20, 2014. For details, visit www.ashrae.org/publicreviews. ASHRAE Guideline 0.2P, The Commissioning Process for Existing Systems and Assemblies, describes the procedures, methods, documentation, requirements and physical activities of the commissioning process for existing buildings, systems and assemblies using the principles developed in ASHRAE Guideline 0-2005, The Commissioning Process.
ASHRAE/IBPSA-USA Building Simulation Conference Announces Call for Presenters
Source: ashrae.org
The 2014 ASHRAE/IBPSA-USA Building Simulation Conference, Sept. 10-12, 2014, Atlanta, Ga., has announced a call for presenters. This new joint, co-sponsored conference encompasses the ASHRAE Energy Modeling and IBPSA-USA SimBuild Conferences. The call for presenters is focused on the theme "BIM, BEM and SIM – Integrated Building Design and Modeling," an area currently of great concern to practicing professionals that will be addressed through five broad tracks.
Call for presenter proposals are due Feb. 10, 2014. A 400-word abstract addressing a specific topic and speaker background information are required. Notifications will be issued in March 2014. For more information, visit www.ashrae.org/simulation2014.
Center for the Polyurethanes Industry Seeking Papers, Posters for the 2014 Polyurethanes Technical Conference
Source: americanchemistry.com
The Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) of the American Chemistry Council has issued a call for papers and posters to be presented at the 2014 Polyurethanes Technical Conference, which will take place September 22-24, 2014 at the Gaylord Texan in Dallas, Texas. Paper abstracts are due Feb. 3, 2014. Submission instructions and guidelines for development of papers and posters can be found on CPI’s website, www.polyurethane.org. Poster abstracts are due August 22, 2014.
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BPI Standards and Certifications: What's New and Revised in 2014 (webinar)
Source: bpi.org
Over the last year, a lot has happened in the world of BPI. The Building Analyst certification has been updated, new energy auditing standards have been released, and four new advanced certifications were introduced. As these new and revised standards and certifications roll out, it's important for home performance professionals to learn more about the updates and the ways they can impact your company in the future.
Join Efficiency First at a webinar, Friday, January 17, to dive in to the core components of BPI's new and revised standards and certifications. Tune in to find out how these updates will influence your company's operations, and what you can do in your business to keep up to speed.
Revisions to Climate Data Standard from ASHRAE Include New Climate Zone, Climatic Data
Source: ashrae.org
The newly updated Standard 169, Climatic Data for Building Design Standards, serves as a comprehensive source of climate data for those involved in building design, and provides a variety of climatic information for designing, planning and sizing building energy systems and equipment.
"Using the results from ASHRAE Research Project 1453 ‘Updating the ASHRAE Climatic Data for Design and Standards,’ the data and tables in the standard were completely replaced," Dru Crawley, chair of the committee writing the standard, said.
Spray Polyurethane Foam Design Guidance: Insulation and Air Barrier Requirements of the 2012 I-Codes Source: americanchemistry.com
provides building designers with easy-to-use information about spray polyurethane foam (SPF) for use as wall and roof insulation and as an air barrier. Air barrier information and R-value requirements for commercial and residential buildings complying with the 2012 IECC and 2012 IgCC are provided. (booklet version)
Hear more about CEIR Updates from James R. Kirby AIA, at the SprayFoam Convention & Expo, Jan. 28, 11:15 a.m.-noon.
>>The Building Codes Assistance Project Updates on Building Energy Codes
Source: energycodesocean.org
BCAP Newsletters are quarterly summaries of what's been happening at the Building Codes Assistance Project and building energy code progress around the nation. To access the full archive, click here. Here are some of the recent alerts from the BCAP Code Alerts released released weekly by the Building Codes Assistance Project (BCAP) and its website, the Online Code Environment & Advocacy Network (OCEAN). Code Alert Bulletins are designed to share information and support timely participation in state and local activities related to the adoption and implementation of building energy codes. The bulletins highlight immediate opportunities to influence state and local policy outcomes, indicate code status, and recommend contacts for action. If you know of activity that should be on this bulletin or would like to sign up for this bulletin, contact Matt Kerns at (202) 530-2252 or mkerns@ase.org.
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Significant Progress on Energy Efficiency in 2013 — And 2014 Could Be Even Better
Source: aceee.org
As 2013 draws to a close, it's useful to reflect back on the past year and look forward to the coming one. Despite political and economic headwinds, the states and federal and local governments continued to make progress on energy efficiency policies in 2013.
2013 in Review: Looking Back on Efficiency’s Year
Source: ase.org
As we reflect on the accomplishments of our personal lives over the last year, let’s also revisit energy efficiency’s year, which, by the way, was pretty busy.
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