Current Codes
Criteria for the Rationalisation of Energy Use for Buildings
This code combined prescriptive and performance-based elements and applies to large commercial construction, setting standards for the building envelope, HVAC, lighting, water heating, and vertical transport.
Design and Construction Guidelines on the Rationalisation of Energy Use for Houses
This code applies to residential construction of all sizes and sets standards for insulation, HVAC, water heating, and maintenance/operations. This code is also a mixture of prescriptive and performance-based elements.
Criteria for Clients on the Rationalisation of Energy Use for Houses
Like other codes, the CCREUH has certain prescriptive requirements that vary by region.
Helpful Links
- Agency for Natural Resources and Energy
- Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry
- Building Code Implementation Summary
- Country Report on Building Energy Codes in Japan April 2009
- Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency (CASBEE)
- Article: Germany, Italy, and Japan Top World Energy Efficiency Rankings July 20, 2016
History
The Japanese government actively pursues energy efficiency measures in an attempt to increase the country’s energy security and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
Japan’s modern concern with energy efficiency dates back to 1979, when the country issued the first iteration of its Energy Conservation Law (ECL). This law was enforced in response to two oil crises. The ECL targets four major areas; one of these is commercial and residential buildings. Although its initial focus was promoting energy efficiency in the industrial sector, it has since expanded through numerous updates to include buildings.
In 2009, a US Department of Energy report noted that Japan had very stringent SHGC requirements for commercial windows.