Ad-Hoc Stretch Code

• Protect residents and businesses from rising energy costs

• Attract lasting investments and high-quality development aligned with modern energy standards

• Improve comfort and resilience in buildings (better insulation, air quality, and durability)

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainability goals

Addressing Cost and Development Concerns

It’s natural to wonder whether building to higher standards means higher housing costs or less future development. Studies in Illinois and across the country show that while energy-efficient construction can add modest upfront costs, these can be offset by monthly energy savings, reduced maintenance needs, and higher property value.

In many cases, any initial increased costs can level out over time as the industry and market adjust to the learning curve. There is also no evidence that stronger energy standards lead to less development, especially when requirements are not overly complicated, and adequate time and resources for education and implementation are provided. Developers who choose stretch code communities aren’t afraid of high standards—they embrace them to deliver durable, efficient, and future-ready buildings that will benefit the community for generations.

The truth is that housing prices and construction costs have continued to rise even in places with no energy codes or weak energy efficiency requirements. Utility prices are also rising, with rates in Illinois increasing an average of 6.8% every year since 2020, and 14% in 2025 (some residents saw triple digit electric bill increases this summer).

Any new construction cannot afford to be built in a way that burdens future occupants with a lifetime of high energy bills. Energy codes are the only building codes where occupants see a direct payback into their pocketbook every month through the life of the building. By adopting the Illinois Stretch Energy Code, our city is not only ensuring smarter buildings for today but also protecting residents from higher costs in the future.

That said, Aurora is committed to understanding the impacts of the stretch code and is exploring ways to assist the industry and homeowners with incentives, education, and technical assistance. See the Get Involved section below if you’d like to participate in providing feedback.

Will support be available?

The City will offer clear guidance, training opportunities, and easy-to-use compliance checklists to help builders and developers meet stretch code standards (some of those checklists and trainings can already be found in the Learn More section below). We’ll work closely with contractors, inspectors, and property owners to make the transition smooth. The City will also connect projects with available incentives, rebates, and technical assistance to help offset costs and simplify the process.

Benefits for Our Community