As of Jan. 1, 2020 the changes to Title 24, Part 6 (that were codified in 2019) took effect. Changes apply to all building projects now submitting for a building permit.Virtually no construction is exempt. The changes include energy and water efficiency requirements along with indoor air quality for:
- Newly constructed buildings.
- Additions to existing buildings.
- Alterations to existing buildings.
- New residential requirements.
As a result of title 24 compliance, businesses and homeowners alike are saving money in both the short and long term. Short term, the savings come from reduced monthly energy costs. Long term, comes from avoiding taxes and surcharges to build new energy plants as well as remaining a world leader in controlling climate change.
The California Energy Commission proudly proclaims,
“The state’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards have saved Californians billions of dollars in reduced electricity bills. They conserve nonrenewable resources, such as natural gas, and ensure renewable resources are extended as far as possible so power plants do not need to be built.”
Future key goals are that renewable energy provides 60% of electricity by 2030. Also, that 100% of energy be sourced from zero-carbon sources by 2045, the same year the entire state of California intends to be carbon neutral.
Title 24 Compliance – Highlights for Solar Power and Lighting Solutions
The new significant title 24 compliancerequirements for residential are the introduction of photovoltaic into the prescriptive package, improvements for attics, walls, waterheating, and lighting.
Now required are solar photovoltaic systems for all new homes (also known as solar power). As a result, a solar panel system must be integrated with your PGE service. State studies show the average cost at about $9,500 for new construction or about $40 per month when amortized over a 30-year mortgage. The expected benefit is a $19,000 savings in energy and maintenance costs over the same 30 years.
Also related to residential, the standards encourage demand-responsive technologies including battery storage and heat pump water heaters. They will also improve the building’s thermal envelope through high-performance attics, walls, and windows.
For the first time, the title 24 compliance standards have been established for newly constructed healthcare facilities. Included are hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and more. Although there are a number of code exemptions, healthcare facilities are now covered and require an energy-efficient design.
Also on the non-residential side, lighting standards are one of the biggest changes. Key non-residential lighting changes are:
- Maximum use of LED technology.
- Lighting power density (LPD) requirements are now based entirely on LED, not fluorescentlighting.
- Controls on existing building lighting alterations are more stringent.
- Demand response controls and demand management requirements are now consolidated.
- All restrooms must install occupancy sensor controls.
These are only a few highlighted changes that are now in effect.
Title 24 Compliance Pays Best When You Work With Experts
K2D specializes in residential and commercial Title 24 Energy Calculation Services to builders, designers, architects, and homeowners. Achieving compliance requires a depth of knowledge that comes with years of experience. We understand that the code is complex but title 24 compliance ultimately improves building performance and saves owners money.
The new requirements are mandatory – and when done right, these are worth every dollar spent in terms of improved building functionality, comfort, and energy cost savings for years to come. It is in the best interest new and existing building owners/managers to consult with efficiency experts such as K2D in order to ensure compliance and maximum return on investment.
Experts at K2D provide solutions for apartment buildings, office and multiple-tenant buildings,
industrial facilities, schools, hospitals, and government buildings such as courthouses. For
further information or to schedule a consultation please contact K2D a MEP Firm at 310.935.3773 or visit www.K2D.com to learn more.
