South Carolina § 48-52-825 - Adoption of current facility energy efficiency rating system.

§ 48-52-825. Adoption of current facility energy efficiency rating system.

(A)(1)(a) The board shall automatically adopt by reference the most current editions of the rating systems developed by Green Building Initiative and U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design used for certification pursuant to this article. Upon adoption, the most current edition of the rating system shall be used for certification purposes under this article. Provided, however, that the most current edition of the rating system shall be subject to regulations concerning that edition of the rating system when promulgated pursuant to item (2).

(b) In the event that two rating systems from the same organization have been adopted by reference and are effective concurrently for certification purposes, then either rating system may be utilized to certify projects as required pursuant to this article. The latter of the two rating systems to be adopted by reference pursuant to subitem (a) shall be deemed to be the most current edition of the rating system for purposes of review and regulation pursuant to subsection (B).

(2) The board shall refer new or updated rating systems to the Energy Independence and Sustainable Construction Advisory Committee for consideration pursuant to Section 48-52-865(B) immediately upon the release of the new or updated rating system and prior to the rating system's effective date. After receiving the advisory committee's recommendations, the board shall promulgate regulations to amend the rating system under consideration to remove specific provisions, provided that the recommended amendments would not so alter the rating system as to render certification under the rating system impossible. If the advisory committee does not make a recommendation within the time period prescribed in Section 48-52-865(B)(2) the board, upon consultation with the State Engineer, shall proceed with promulgating regulations as provided in this item.

(B) The regulations promulgated pursuant to subsection (A) must provide that the rating systems provide certification credits for, preference for, and promotes building materials or furnishings, including, but not limited to, wood grown in this State, and masonry, plastics, concrete, steel, textiles, and wood that are manufactured or produced within the State. The regulations promulgated may not place at a disadvantage building materials or furnishings that are manufactured or produced within the State.

HISTORY: 2014 Act No. 150 (H.3592), SECTION 1, eff April 7, 2014.