The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources and the Rhode Island Builders Association (RIBA) have secured a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This funding will support energy code training and educational resources for building inspectors, designers, home builders, and construction trades professionals in Rhode Island.
RIBA plans to train home building professionals on the new state energy code using materials developed through a partnership with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The updated state code is based on the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), marking a significant shift from previous standards. RIBA aims to quickly bring the state's building industry up to speed on the new code to ensure a continuous supply of homes and remodels.
The DOE grant was funded through a program included in the bipartisan infrastructure law passed in 2021.
NAHB began collaborating with RIBA last year to help develop training modules on various aspects of the new code. Staff from both organizations worked with building science experts to create materials tailored to Rhode Island's specific energy code, with hopes that these resources could be adapted for use in other jurisdictions.
"We wanted an industry-based training program for the code that could allow RIBA to be a training partner in the space, work in collaboration with its state energy office, and create a resource for other state HBAs who may soon face these circumstances," said John Marcantonio, executive officer of RIBA.
In January, NAHB and RIBA held their first in-person training session attended by state and local leaders, including the governor, who were interested in the workforce training aspect of the event.
Training and development are central to RIBA’s membership strategy. The association offers many courses, often free of charge, designed to help experienced trade professionals transition into general contracting and home building. Additionally, RIBA provides other educational options, including a comprehensive suite of NAHB courses.
"NAHB responded quickly to the need," noted Marcantonio. "The two organizations worked over a short period of time to produce and launch a comprehensive and easy-to-understand series of course modules designed for builders by builders."
The energy codes training modules and sessions exemplify successful collaboration between NAHB, its members, and HBAs.