Month: August 2021

The California Energy Commission recently adopted the 2022 Energy Code. This latest iteration of codes is the strongest California has seen to date. At ID360 we have a 10 year history of supporting jurisdictions building on these statewide codes with energy reach codes. First, with reach code policy design. Then implementation. And finally, through measurement. Successful climate action planning and implementation requires a 360 degree approach! However, we understand the process can be confusing. Allow us to break down the 2022 California Energy Code for you into the basics of who, what, when, where and why.

Who:

The energy codes are developed by the California Energy Commission. They work with many key stakeholders, including the public. They also rely on data, robust industry research and cost-effectiveness.

What:

The energy codes are a set of standards specifying how buildings must be constructed or perform to save energy cost effectively and reduce emissions throughout the state.

The 2022 set of codes specifically address:

  • Expanding solar and battery storage standards;
  • Adopting electric-ready requirements for single-family homes;
  • Encourage electric heat pump technology for space and water heating.

When:

The codes update every three years. The 2022 Energy Codes will take effect January 1, 2023.

Where:

The codes apply to any structures within the state of California. Many local jurisdictions will create their own set of standards that go above and beyond the state’s standards. These are called “energy reach codes”. At ID360 we have worked with many cities to develop and implement energy reach codes.

Why:

Sustainability and a better, healthier planet! California has set a goal of carbon neutrality by 2045. Climate action planning requires many strategies and building electrification is at the top of that priority list. To learn more about local energy code design, implementation or measurement contact us today.

At ID360 we work with clients in all phases and stages of sustainable design, construction and policy management. Electrification is a HUGE part of what we do. In buildings, electric alternatives exist for all major energy end uses. It is obviously good for our planet, but electrification also benefits the community. Here are our top three reasons why.

Solar panels, electrification
Solar panels in the city
  1. Electrification creates jobs! Good paying, high demand jobs.
  2. Electrification promotes equity within communities. Benefits include cleaner air, healthier homes, and greater access to affordable clean energy. This all leads to greater energy efficiency to reduce monthly bills. Win win win!
  3. Electrification helps California meet climate goals! DYK California has a goal of a net-zero carbon economy and 100% clean electricity by 2035?

What are your top reasons why electrification is good for the community? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Need more? Join us at ID360 Academy to see our suite of courses in green building design and sustainability planning.

It’s no secret California has been dealing with serious energy and air quality issues for a long time. California actually started regulating emissions before the EPA! One major way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is through electrification. Let’s talk about what exactly electrification is and how local energy and EV reach codes get us closer to a clean energy future.

electrification

What is Electrification?

Electrification is the process of converting fossil fuel-operated appliances like oil furnaces, gas water heaters, and wood stoves to electricity. In California, Title 24 of the Code of Regulations sets the building code standards for all authorities.

DYK heating and cooling of buildings accounts for about 13 percent of US emissions?

These standards regulate building energy efficiency, including:

  • Lighting
  • Cooling and heating systems
  • Building insulation

The current California standards apply to projects with permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2020. At the time of the writing of this article, we are about halfway through the current code cycle with the upcoming standards set to be effective on January 1, 2023.

What are Reach Codes?

The Building Energy Efficiency Standards regulate building energy efficiency throughout the state of California, however, local jurisdictions can adopt more strict requirements known as “energy reach codes”. Through the development and implementation of these codes, local governments can impose stricter energy efficiency requirements.

In addition to meeting the baseline statewide standards, a reach code must meet the following requirements:

  • Reach codes must be cost-effective. The funds saved from reduced energy costs should be able to cover initial cost increases.
  • The California Energy Commission must approve all reach codes.
  • The codes must be re-approved and reviewed every three years. The next code cycle change will go into into effect on January 1, 2023.

How do reach codes further electrification?

Electrification begins with local goals – what is the community trying to achieve and by when? At ID360 we work with local government teams to understand their sustainability goals and help develop bold policies around green building, climate change, and energy efficiency. We work side-by-side with city staff to implement the goals of the city council and community members. Check out our recent project with the City of South San Francisco. We are working with the city on their unique characteristics surrounding their reach codes in support of building electrification and electric vehicle charging infrastructure goals. 

All California cities that have adopted an Energy Reach Code during the current 2019 code cycle will be required to update or archive their local code by next year. ID360 has provided advisory, policy development, and program design and implementation services to many other local jurisdictions. Read our other case studies or contact us to talk about your policy design needs.