State Senator Joe Uecker (R–Miami Township) today testified before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on Senate Concurrent Resolution 25, which seeks to improve Ohio’s energy efficiency standards.

SCR 25 encourages increased use of energy efficiency standards in Ohio by urging state agencies to adopt the green building rating systems developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) when implementing energy efficiency and environmental performance objectives.

“I have always been a strong advocate for good energy efficiency policies in Ohio,” said Uecker. “When done correctly, efforts to be more energy efficient can reduce state operating costs, and contribute to the work of our local businesses.”

The state currently uses the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards for evaluating the efficiency of publicly-funded buildings in Ohio. LEED is a national initiative of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a private organization that sets standards for evaluating environmentally friendly buildings.

Recently, concerns have been raised by members of the green building industry about the newest version of LEED standards, LEED v4. Opponents claim LEED v4 does not conform to ANSI design standards and it eliminates the use of a number of safe and effective building materials, impacting numerous industries in Ohio that produce insulation foam, vinyl, and flooring.

“I think the state should lead by example in finding creative ways to reduce costs and lessen the impact we have on our environment,” added Uecker. “The American National Standards Institute will help us raise the bar for energy efficiency while having a positive impact on Ohio businesses and this resolution calls on all public entities in Ohio to set their sights on this more effective goal.”

SCR 25 will remain in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee for further deliberation.