The purpose of this Standard is to provide design requirements which will improve utilization of energy in new buildings.

The requirements of tJlis Standard are directed toward the design of building envelopes with adequate thermal resistance and low air leakage and toward the design and selection of mechanical, electrical, service, and illummination systems and equipment which will en· able the effective use of energy in new buildings.

It is intended that this Standard be flexible in order that designers be encouraged to use innovative approaches and techniques to achieve effective utilization of energy. More effective use of energy may be achieved by the use of alternate design solutions, which follow the specific requirements of Sections 10 and/or 11.

It is intended that this Standard be used in the design of new buildings and that compliance with its requirements should be determinable in the preconstruction stage, by evaluation and analysis of design specifications, drawings and calculations.

This Standard is not intended to abridge any safety or health requirements.