New Energy Code in Maine: Will It Save You Money or Cost You More?

As of this week, Maine’s building rules just got a glow-up—or a blow-up, depending on who you ask. According to Maine.gov, The state officially adopted a new energy code (based on the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code), which means new homes and major renovations will need to be more energy efficient. Sounds great in theory, right? Lower utility bills, better insulation, and a greener future?

Well, kind of. According to News Center Maine, state leaders are promising long-term savings, saying homeowners could save nearly $1,000 on utility bills in the first year alone. That’s thanks to upgrades like higher insulation standards—jumping from an R49 to an R60 level in attics. Translation: your house will be warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

But here’s the catch: more insulation = more material = more money. News Center Maine also says that Travis Blake, president of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Maine, says these new requirements will force builders to rework designs and pass those added costs along to buyers. Basically, your energy-efficient dream home might come with a higher price tag.

So, what’s the real impact? Short term: expect new home prices to tick up. Long term: potential savings on energy bills and better-built homes. News Center Maine also stated that for towns under 4,000 people, enforcing these codes is optional—but for everyone else, it’s the new normal.

The new code went into effect on April 7th.