Energy Saver Website and Tool
Consolidated in one central, online location, energy-saving programs can be accessed through the Energy Saver Tool on EnergySaver.SC.GOV. The tool offers an easy way for the public to answer a few simple questions and find energy-saving programs available to them. Users can also search by category or by program name to find specific program information. Programs and results are printable and can be shared by exporting to a PDF or Excel file. In addition, the Energy Saver website includes energy-saving tips for homes and businesses in a user-friendly and easy-to-follow format.
Energy Efficient Construction
Construction of energy efficient new homes is the most cost-effective way of achieving an energy efficient housing stock over the course of time. The Energy Office is involved in a number of activities to encourage energy efficient new construction, including promoting the use of effective energy building codes, high energy efficiency rating systems, and other activities and publications, including a manual on passive solar construction.
Manufactured Housing Energy Efficiency
South Carolina has two incentive programs to encourage the purchase of more energy efficient manufactured homes. The first program, which began in 2009, eliminates the sales tax from Energy Star manufactured homes, and also provides a $750 state income tax credit to qualified homebuyers. The South Carolina Energy Office provides more information about the Energy Star tax incentives.
An older program caps the state sales taxes for manufactured homes at $300 if they meet or exceed energy efficiency standards specified in state law.
SC Duct & Envelope Tightness Verifier
Duct and Envelope Tightness Verification, as required in the 2009 & 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), is rapidly becoming accepted practice for HVAC technicians and installers nationwide. South Carolina has adopted the 2009 IECC code which requires leak testing of duct systems if the duct is outside the conditioned area of the home. In anticipation of the 2012 IECC, which adds an additional requirement of building envelope leakage testing using a blower door, HVAC companies in South Carolina are seeking to stay current and code compliant by having their personnel undergo this special SC Duct & Envelope Tightness (SCDET) Verifier training certification. Provided through support from the Energy Office, this training will provide attendees with everything they need to be a South Carolina Duct and Envelope Tightness Verifier. All participants who successfully complete the training will be listed in the SC Association of Heating & Air Conditioning Contractor's SCDET database that is recognized by the Energy Office and The Homebuilders Association of SC.