Delaware Energy Code Adoption Update

June 16, 2026

In April 2026, the State of Delaware Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy Office amended the Regulations by adopting the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code and the ASHRAE 90.1-2022 for commercial and high-rise residential buildings. This regulation also adopts Appendix RE: EV Charging Infrastructure and Appendix CB: Solar-Ready Zone with amendments to align with corresponding statutory requirements.

Effective January 1, 2027, Sussex County will require all new homes, conditioned residential additions/accessory structures and commercial buildings to comply with the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code as adopted.

All new homes, conditioned residential additions/accessory structures and commercial building plans submitted to Sussex County after December 31, 2026, must be designed to the 2024 IECC and have an energy compliance worksheet such as a “REScheck” or “COMcheck” accompanying all plans.

For more details, you may contact the Delaware Division of Climate, Coastal and Energy Office on their web site at: https://dnrec.alpha.delaware.gov/climate-coastal-energy/efficiency/building-energy-codes/

Any questions regarding these requirements, may be directed to the Sussex County Building Code Office at (302) 855-7860 or awright@sussexcountyde.gov.