The Michigan Uniform Energy Code defines the minimum standards for
energy efficiency in residential home construction. Last updated
in 1999, the Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC) is one of the weakest
residential energy codes in the nation, even though the Michigan
climate is among the harshest. Proposed changes to the MUEC were
blocked by a 2005 lawsuit filed against the state by the Michigan
Association of Home Builders (MAHB), on the grounds that the increased
cost associated with the new standards will make new homes unaffordable
to some. However, while it may cost more up front to build to the
revised energy code standards, the energy savings that will be realized
over the life of the home will far outweigh the additional cost.
Many Michigan builders have already made the transition to building
more energy efficient homes in order to reap the government tax credits
and as a selling point for potential buyers. The current and proposed
energy code requirements are shown in the table below, along with
the requirements for Energy Star certification.
|
Code |
Ceiling |
Wall |
Windows |
Basement Walls |
Furnace |
|
Current |
R30 |
R13 |
U 0.52 |
No mandate |
78% Efficiency |
|
Proposed |
R49 |
R21 |
U 0.35 |
R11 |
78% Efficiency |
|
Energy Star |
R38 |
R13 |
U 0.35 |
R10 |
90%
Efficiency
|
|
