Seth Clarke | Support HB1180

Written Testimony in Support of HB1180 – Adoption of IECC 2024 House Executive Departments and Administration Committee Hearing: Wednesday, January 28 at 10:30 AM My name is Seth Clarke, AIA, and I am a licensed architect and a member of the New Hampshire Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIANH). I have over 20 years of professional experience in residential, institutional, and commercial architecture, and I currently serve in a leadership role focused on preconstruction, design coordination, and cost control for complex residential projects. My work requires balancing first cost, long-term value, constructability, and owner outcomes. I am writing in strong support of House Bill 1180 to update New Hampshire’s building energy code to the IECC 2024 standard. Based on both professional experience and the cost and energy analysis prepared by the NH ASHRAE committee, it is clear that modern energy codes reduce the total cost of building ownership. While there is a modest upfront investment, this is more than offset by measurable reductions in heating and cooling costs over the life of the building. These savings matter deeply to homeowners, renters, and building owners—who, unlike builders, are responsible for long-term operational costs. Energy codes also serve an important consumer protection function. In the absence of clear, enforceable standards, building owners are exposed to the risk of substandard construction practices that shift future energy, moisture, and durability costs onto them—often invisibly and irreversibly. A strong statewide code establishes a consistent baseline of quality, protects buyers from hidden performance deficiencies, and ensures that energy efficiency is not treated as an optional upgrade available only to those with specialized knowledge. From a building science perspective, the IECC 2024 standard supports healthier, longer-lasting buildings. Improved insulation, air sealing, and ventilation reduce the risk of mold, condensation, and rot, while also improving indoor air quality for occupants. These measures extend building life cycles, reduce costly repairs, and protect the housing stock of New Hampshire over the long term. Finally, adopting IECC 2024 aligns with broader public benefits. Energy-efficient buildings reduce demand on electrical and heating fuel infrastructure, helping stabilize energy costs statewide. They also reduce carbon emissions and increase resale value, making New Hampshire’s homes and buildings more resilient, more affordable to operate, and more competitive in the marketplace. For these reasons, I urge the Committee to support HB1180 and adopt the IECC 2024 energy code. This legislation represents a practical, data-backed step toward protecting building owners, improving construction quality, and lowering long-term costs for the people of New Hampshire. Respectfully submitted, Seth Clarke, AIA Member, AIANH Licensed Architect, New Hampshire Director of Business Development for Bensonwood - a large employer (~150 get) in Keene and Walpole and a leader in offsite home building and building science.