New buildings in Dartmouth could become more energy efficient as the town explores an addition to the building code, which was presented in detail at a workshop on July 25.

Known as the “stretch code,” the code is an optional appendix to the state building code that individual cities and towns may choose to adopt.

One of the biggest benefits of adopting the stretch code, according to state Department of Energy Resources Stretch Code presenter Michael Berry, is that they offer performance-based measurements of the energy efficiently of new buildings.

The stretch code rates a building’s energy efficiency on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS), with measurements and tests of a new building’s energy efficiency performed by a HERS professional. The stretch code establishes guidelines for minimum HERS scores.

Dartmouth Energy Manager Shawn Luz added that the stretch code offers a better way of making buildings energy efficient than traditional building codes.

“With stretch codes, you’re using a performance-based code,” Luz said. “You have a second set of eyes to ensure that you’re saving energy.”

The adoption of the stretch code must be approved at a Town Meeting. Luz hopes the measure can be placed on the fall Town Meeting agenda.

The stretch code implementation is one of several initiatives being taken by the town to qualify for the state Green Communities designation and grant program. The program provides state funding for energy efficiency projects to cities and towns.

In addition to adopting the stretch codes, the town must meet four other criteria in order to apply for a Green Communities designation. The town must provide as-of-right siting for developing energy efficiency and alternative energy generation, research and development, or manufacturing facilities. As-of-right siting means the development must proceed without unreasonable regulation.

The town must also adopt an expedited process to apply for permits and file applications for energy efficiency projects, must reduce its energy use and must purchase fuel-efficient vehicles.

Luz said that the town is working to address all five items on the criteria, and has already met several. Looking forward, Luz already has ideas for how to spend potential grant money.

“We just recently did boiler replacements in several schools,” Luz said. “I believe there are still boilers that we could replace and put in new energy efficient boilers.”

According to Seth Pickering, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources Regional Coordinator, if the stretch codes are approved at Town Meeting, the town could begin the application process for the Green Communities program immediately. He said the application deadline for this year is October 31, and that designations – and grant funding amounts – are usually announced in the first two weeks of December.