Illinois Climate Pollution Reduction Grants: Stretch Code Adoption Grant Application - Fourth Round

Illinois developed this stretch code as part of its broader efforts to improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and align with the state’s ambitious climate goals. By adopting a stretch energy code, municipalities have the opportunity to exceed the baseline statewide energy efficiency requirements. Illinois pursued the development of the stretch energy code to provide a framework for implementing advanced energy-saving measures in new construction and retrofits. The code integrates progressive energy efficiency standards that go beyond the statewide minimum, focusing on enhanced insulation, high-performance heating and cooling systems, and improved building envelope requirements. By doing so, Illinois aims to reduce energy consumption in the building sector, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, while simultaneously lowering utility costs for residents and businesses. The Stretch Building Code Grant Program is designed to facilitate the adoption, implementation, and enforcement of the Illinois Stretch Energy Code by supporting units of local governments with the necessary resources to navigate this process. The program will provide financial support for education, community engagement, and technical assistance to ensure that municipalities are well-equipped to integrate the stretch code into their regulatory frameworks. Over the five-year program period, the goal is to have 90 municipalities and local government units adopt the Illinois Stretch Energy Code, contributing to statewide emissions reductions and greater energy efficiency in both new and existing building stock. Through this grant program, municipalities will receive funding that enables these local governments to better understand the stretch code, determine local impacts, support community engagement, and develop implementation plans. The program aims to streamline the process by offering resources for internal capacity-building, public engagement efforts, and technical training for staff responsible for code enforcement.