Tag: Energy Efficiency

At ID360, we’re proud to collaborate with many forward-thinking organizations whose work is shaping how communities build, power, and thrive. From implementing cutting-edge building codes to fostering local energy control, groups like the International Code Council (ICC), Regional Energy Networks (RENs), California Community Choice Association (CalCCA), U.S. Green Building Council California (USGBC-CA), and the California Climate and Energy Collaborative (CCEC) are helping California define what a sustainable future looks like—and how to get there.

International Code Council (ICC): Raising the Bar on Building Standards

The ICC’s California chapters are deeply engaged in development and education around modern building codes that prioritize safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability. Through training and technical guidance, ICC ensures that building practices keep pace with California’s changing needs.

Regional Energy Networks (RENs): Local Governments Leading Local Solutions

The RENs—such as BayREN, SoCalREN, and Tri-County REN—are regional collaborations that design and implement energy efficiency programs tailored to the unique needs of local communities. These coalitions often serve populations and sectors overlooked by traditional utilities, focusing on equity, innovation, and long-term impact. From workforce development to building retrofits, RENs are helping reduce energy use while empowering local action.

California Community Choice Association (CalCCA): Powering Cleaner Communities

Representing Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs), CalCCA champions energy choice and local control. CCAs enable cities and counties to procure their own electricity, prioritizing renewable sources and affordability. By decentralizing power procurement and reinvesting in their communities, CalCCA members are playing a vital role in decarbonizing the grid and promoting energy democracy throughout California.

USGBC California (USGBC-CA): Shaping Sustainable Spaces

USGBC-CA is at the forefront of transforming how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. Through green building certifications like LEED, education programs, and strong advocacy, the organization promotes healthier, more efficient environments. Their efforts help reduce carbon emissions, improve indoor air quality, and showcase how sustainability enhances both well-being and economic performance.

California Climate and Energy Collaborative (CCEC): Connecting Climate Leaders

The CCEC brings together local governments, researchers, and community organizations to share knowledge, align strategies, and implement effective climate solutions. Through peer learning, technical support, and policy development, the collaborative strengthens California’s climate response while building capacity at the local level. Their work is critical to ensuring that no community is left behind in the transition to a cleaner future.

Together, these organizations represent a powerful network of change agents. Their collective work demonstrates that smart policies, innovative programs, and strong partnerships can create a future where buildings are high-performing, communities are resilient, and sustainability is embedded in everyday practice. 

As we step into 2025, one thing is clear: this is the year for leadership. The challenges and opportunities on the horizon demand bold, visionary leaders who are ready to push boundaries, embrace change, and steer their organizations toward transformative success. 

Why 2025 Is the Leadership Moment
The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace, with technological innovation and changing societal expectations creating exciting new opportunities for organizations across the industry. To navigate these waters, we need leaders who can think ahead, inspire action, and adapt to new realities without hesitation. Leadership in 2025 is not just about managing—it’s about moving the ship in the right direction, even when the course isn’t clear.

Setting Ambitious Goals
The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to dream big. Ambitious goals have the power to energize teams, align resources, and create momentum that drives meaningful change. Whether it’s doubling revenue, launching a groundbreaking product, or rethinking how we serve customers, leaders in 2025 must challenge themselves to aim higher and execute with focus.

Reinventing for Bold Change

2025 presents an exciting opportunity to identify areas for improvement and embrace bold changes. It’s the perfect time to refresh outdated processes, energize organizational culture to spark creativity, and upgrade systems to better align with the mission. Reinvention is about confidently reimagining the playbook to create something even better. Achieving this requires courage, collaboration, and an open mind to explore new approaches beyond “how it’s always been done.

The Leadership Mindset
To succeed this year, leaders need a mindset rooted in innovation, resilience, and authenticity. They must inspire trust, foster collaboration, and empower teams to take risks. Leadership in 2025 is about building not just organizations, but movements—driven by purpose and the desire to make an impact.

This is the year to think bigger, act bolder, and take the reins of reinvention. Let’s make 2025 the year we redefine leadership, set our sights on transformative goals, and steer our ships confidently into the future. The time for leadership is now—the time to lead with purpose.

Menlo Park, CA April 02, 2024. ID360, a leading sustainability consulting company, announced today support for the Solar App Plus program for the City of El Cerrito. 

The goal of this work is to provide technical support to the City of El Cerrito’s Solar App Plus program implementation. The top priority is to ensure the program will achieve long-term goals and ultimately result in new construction and existing building development achieving energy efficiency

“Solar App Plus is an innovative and forward-thinking program for cities,” said Melanie Jacobson, Principal and Founder of ID360. “El Cerrito is committed to environmental stewardship and its effort to reduce its carbon footprint. Our work with the city will promote renewable energy adoption and sustainability within the local community of El Cerrito.”

Solar App Plus is a web-based platform that automates solar permitting for local governments and other authorities having jurisdiction. The Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office funded the initial development and commercialization of the tool in 2019.  Solar App Plus makes rooftop solar adoption easier for local governments to quickly and safely approve standardized rooftop projects.

For the City of El Cerrito, the adoption of the Solar App Plus Program is a testament to its dedication to fostering a clean and sustainable future for its residents. ID360 will assist city staff in developing and implementing this program to meet the City’s sustainability goals. 

For more information about Solar App Plus or ID360’s work visit www.id360.green.

Introduction

As we gear up for the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) update set to take effect on July 1, 2024, the spotlight is on electric vehicle (EV) requirements and the subsequent changes in EV infrastructure. At the forefront of this transformation is ID360, an industry leader in sustainable building practices. In this blog, we will explore the upcoming CALGreen update and the heightened EV requirements.

The CALGreen Building Code Update

Scheduled to go into effect July 1, 2024, the updated CALGreen building code marks a significant shift in the state’s commitment to sustainability, with a particular focus on electric vehicles. One of the key areas experiencing a revamp is the EV requirements for buildings, leading to a greater emphasis on EV-ready spaces and expanded EV infrastructure.

As we move forward, the updated CALGreen code will impose more stringent requirements on the inclusion of electric vehicle infrastructure in new construction. With the increasing popularity and importance of electric vehicles in reducing carbon footprints, the state is taking proactive measures to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support this transition.

ID360’s Role in Adapting to the Changes

At the forefront of sustainable building practices, ID360 has been instrumental in adopting and implementing reach codes, paving the way for the state’s ambitious sustainability goals. With the impending changes in CALGreen, ID360 is once again leading the charge, helping clients navigate the intricacies of the updated code and ensuring compliance with the enhanced EV requirements.

As the deadline for compliance approaches, one of the most frequently asked questions from clients revolves around the calculation of required EV spaces. Understanding the intricacies of this calculation is crucial for developers, architects, and building owners. ID360 recognizes this concern and is actively engaged in providing comprehensive guidance on determining the number of required EV spaces for a given project.

Beyond the question of how many EV spaces are needed, clients are also seeking clarity on the appropriate level of EV infrastructure for their spaces. The CALGreen update introduces nuanced requirements for different types of buildings, and ID360 is well-equipped to assist clients in deciphering these specifications. Whether it’s a residential development, commercial space, or mixed-use project, ID360 ensures that the right level of EV infrastructure is incorporated, aligning with the updated building code.

Impact on Reach Codes and Existing Policies

The changes introduced in the CALGreen update extend beyond the immediate requirements for EV infrastructure. The state’s decision to revamp the building code reflects a broader effort to align with and surpass existing reach codes. ID360 has been a key player in implementing these reach codes, and the company is poised to adapt to the evolving landscape, supporting clients in implementing changes that go above and beyond current policies.

As California continues to be a trailblazer in sustainability, the updated CALGreen building code signifies the state’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of green building standards. The changes not only reflect the growing importance of electric vehicles in reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also underscore the need for a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to building design and construction.

Amid California’s evolving building codes, ID360 stands as a beacon of expertise and guidance. Navigating the complexities of the upcoming CALGreen update requires a partner with a deep understanding of sustainable practices and a commitment to staying ahead of the curve. Connect with us for specific questions and concerns.