MEEA presented the 16th Annual Midwest Building Energy Codes Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from September 16 to 18, featuring a stacked lineup of great speakers and discussion topics. Industry stakeholders traveled near and far (some even from upstate New York) to participate in enriching conversations and share ideas for partnerships and collaborations. Overall, it was fantastic to hear about the advanced building energy efficiency codes and practices being incorporated throughout the Midwest region, and to network with and learn from leading experts about potential future trends. 

Here are just a few of the MEEA staff’s key takeaways from this year’s conference: 

"A lot of great ideas were provided during the Energy Code Consultant session regarding outreach and education to builders, design professionals and building officials, particularly in states without circuit rider programs."   - Michelle Thorsell

"It was such an inspirational conference! There are so many people doing great work on so many different facets of building efficiency. Utility codes programs, energy benchmarking, heat pumps, cost-effective compliance – I learned something at every session." - Chris Burgess

"Energy code adoption continues to be varied across the region, with progress looking different in each state. However, despite challenges to adoption and implementation, states continue to be excited to realize the benefits of updated energy efficiency standards." - Emma Hurbanis

"A few presenters spoke passionately to the need for increased workforce in the “testing” industry (i.e., raters, third party verifiers, diagnostic testers (for blower door and duct testing), etc.). It seems time for the energy industry to “put its money where its mouth is” and really invest in building that up in order to further drive the advancement of codes."  - Maddie Liput

"Folks are increasingly talking about the broader human impact of energy codes – like resilience, health and utility bill affordability – and have found that focusing on these messages resonates strongly with people across the ideological spectrum." - Natalie Newman

"At these conferences, I am always reminded of the number of talented, passionate individuals who do this work, day in and day out, and how lucky I am to be involved in it. It is empowering to see the work continue despite the broader industry facing many different headwinds." - John Gossman

If you enjoy engaging in building science and policy discussions, or if you want to learn more in these areas, the Midwest Building Energy Codes Conference is the place to be! The best way to receive updates on next year’s event is to sign up for our monthly newsletter, the Midwest Building Efficiency Status Report. You’re also welcome to email us with any questions or thoughts you have about building energy efficiency. The Building Codes & Policy team would be happy to chat with you.