In fact there are building codes that require a certain r value for insulation depending on where in the country you live.
California attic insulation requirements.
Insulation level are specified by r value.
High performance attics prescriptive attic options climate zone hvac duct insulation leakage radiant barrier r 30 at ceiling attic floor r 38 at ceiling attic floor fiberglass below roof deck between rafters air handler ducts in the attic option b 1 r 6 or r 8 depending on cz all with 5 leakage 2 3.
Title 24 insulation requirements california title 24 energy reports and calcs for all projects.
The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.
Yes energy cost savings for california resulting from the state updating its commercial and residential building energy codes in accordance with federal law are significant estimated to be on the order of nearly 680 million annually by 2030.
The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home.
While federal and in some cases state guidelines for insulation levels are merely recommendations the local building code is the true authority over insulation requirements.