The United States Virgin Islands has formally adopted the 2012 Uniform Solar Energy Code® (USEC) and Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tube Code® (USPSHTC), American National Standards developed and published by IAPMO.

Gov. John P. de Jongh Jr. signed a bill containing language adopting the USEC and USPSHTC before leaving office Dec. 31, 2014. On behalf of Sen. Shawn-Michael Malone, Sen. Donald G. Cole introduced the language as Amendment 1234 to Bill No. 30-0523, which the legislature passed.

"I would like to thank the legislature of the U.S. Virgin Islands for joining IAPMO in our commitment to protecting the public's health and safety through the adoption of these Uniform Codes," said IAPMO CEO GP Russ Chaney. "Given the rising prominence of solar energy systems, along with the number of swimming pools and hot tubs that may be found in the Virgin Islands, it is vital that standards are in place to ensure they are properly installed and maintained."

IAPMO first developed and published the USEC and USPSHTC in September 1976. The provisions of these codes apply to the erection, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, replacement, addition to or maintenance of any solar energy, hydronic heating/cooling, swimming pool, spa or hot tub system. The 2009 and 2012 editions of these codes were produced using a consensus process similar to the one used to develop the Uniform Plumbing Code® and Uniform Mechanical Code®, which are designated as American National Standards.

Founded in Los Angeles in 1926, IAPMO has grown to be recognized the world over for its Uniform Codes. With offices in 12 U.S. states and 13 countries, IAPMO has assisted with code development all over the world, and provisions from its Uniform Plumbing Code® protect more than half the world's population. For more information, visit www.iapmo.org.