SRCC™ and ICC Sign Memorandum of Understanding for a Unified Vision

Creating a Brighter, Safer Future for Solar Thermal Energy

The Solar Rating & Certification Corporation™ (SRCC™ ), the leading non-profit, independent, third-party certification entity for solar hot water collectors and systems, joined the International Code Council (ICC), a membership association dedicated to building safety, fire prevention, and energy efficiency, in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement outlines an effort to develop, augment and promulgate codes and standards for solar thermal systems complemented by an array of support products, training and education related to solar thermal energy.

“We are truly excited about this joint effort. Finding greater uniformity, public safety and sustainability in the solar thermal industry is the goal. With our shared vision and synergies we can further develop standards, best practices, support materials and training that utilize each organization’s unique expertise,” said Eileen Prado, SRCC Executive Director.

Signing the MOU were Prado, and Jay Peters, Executive Director, ICC Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas. On hand was Lead SRCC Technical Director, Jim Huggins, along with Shawn Martin, ICC-PMG Director of Industry Relations.

“The recent release of the 2012 International Green Construction Code (IgCC) and feedback from our Members has demonstrated the rising interest in solar thermal systems,” said Peters. “That, along with the rapid pace of innovation in the solar industry, makes this the right time for ICC and SRCC to solidify our shared commitment for safe and sustainable renewable energy systems. SRCC’s depth of technical expertise, market acceptance and shared commitment to public safety makes this an ideal alliance. Together we’re committed to raising the profile, safety and performance of solar thermal systems in the US and abroad.”

SRCC’s series of standards for solar thermal systems and collectors serve as the basis for rating the performance and energy efficiency of these devices. They are referenced in state and federal codes, regulations, and utility incentive programs. ICC produces a family of 15 model construction codes, including the IgCC and International Energy Conservation Code.

“Solar thermal installations involve elements of the plumbing, mechanical, structural, and electrical systems of a building. For that reason, we anticipate opportunities to address them across our family of codes in a way that reflects the real-world impact of these systems on the trades and inspectors in the field,” noted Peters.

The SRCC was incorporated in 1980 as a non-profit, independent, third-party certification entity. The SRCC provides authoritative performance ratings, certifications and standards for solar thermal products, offers expert recommendations and advice to governments and other entities, as well as guidance and protection for consumers and stakeholders. They help promote the development of reliable solar thermal technologies, and accountability for performance claims.

The International Code Council is a member-focused association dedicated to helping the building safety community and construction industry provide safe and sustainable construction through the development of codes and standards used in the design, build and compliance process. Most U.S. communities and many global markets choose the International Codes.