The scope of the standard includes new buildings and their systems, new portions of buildings and their systems, and new systems and equipment in existing buildings. What Is ASHRAE 90.1?ĪSHRAE 90.1 2 is a consensus standard that provides minimum requirements for the design of energy-efficient buildings. Insulation professionals concerned with energy efficiency in buildings should be familiar with ASHRAE 90.1. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings provides minimum requirements for the energy-efficient design of commercial and high-rise residential buildings. 1 As a consequence, energy usage in buildings (both residential and commercial) is receiving significant attention from federal, state, and local government agencies. Buildings account for roughly 40 percent of the energy consumption and 40 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions in the United States.