In California, energy compliance isn’t just a box to check—it’s a design imperative. As climate concerns rise and legislation tightens, Title 24 of the California Building Standards Code continues to evolve, impacting every stage of design and construction.
For architects and developers, the 2025 updates represent one of the most significant shifts yet, emphasizing electrification, decarbonization, and smart energy management.
Failing to plan for these changes can mean delays, cost overruns, and failed inspections. Planning now positions your projects for smooth approval, lower operating costs, and long-term tenant satisfaction.
What Is Title 24, Part 6? A Quick Refresher
Title 24, Part 6 is California’s Energy Efficiency Standards for residential and non-residential buildings, aiming to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve indoor comfort.
It governs critical design elements like:
- HVAC system efficiency and control
- Lighting design and automated systems
- Water heating and distribution
- Building envelope insulation and air sealing
- Renewable energy integration (solar, battery storage)
Compliance isn’t optional, it’s enforced through CALGreen inspections, HERS verifications, and plan review approvals.
What’s Changing in 2025? Key Title 24 Updates You Need to Know
The 2025 code cycle places heavier emphasis on electrification, renewable energy use, and intelligent building controls. Some of the most impactful changes include:
1. Electrification of All-Electric Baselines
Gas-fired systems are being phased out. New construction must often meet all-electric baselines, meaning electric heat pumps, water heaters, and cooking equipment will become the standard for compliance.
2. Battery Storage Mandates for Larger Projects
Solar PV systems are no longer enough. Many projects will require battery storage systems to maximize onsite energy use and reduce grid strain.
3. Tighter HVAC Efficiency Standards
Minimum SEER ratings are increasing, and zoning and demand-controlled ventilation will be enforced in more building types, including multifamily and light commercial.
4. Advanced Lighting Controls for Interior and Exterior Spaces
Projects must include daylight sensors, occupancy controls, and automated dimming systems in more zones, including parking lots and warehouses.
5. Enhanced Compliance Documentation
Energy models and compliance forms (CF-1R, NRCC) must now include updated load calculations, equipment specs, and renewable energy plans, often requiring MEP coordination early in design.
How These Changes Impact Architects and Developers
These updates require a proactive design approach. Delays or retrofits due to non-compliance can lead to major cost increases and permit rejections.
Architects must consider:
- System sizing and layout impacts of electric HVAC and water heating
- Integration of solar and storage systems into site design
- Compliance documentation that aligns with design narratives
Developers must assess:
- Project cost projections with electrification and renewable systems included
- Financing options and incentives (e.g., California Solar Mandate, SGIP rebates)
- ROI potential through lower energy bills and LEED/CALGreen recognition
How K2D Ensures Seamless Title 24 Compliance
At K2D, we specialize in holistic MEP engineering that not only meets Title 24 standards but also optimizes system performance and reduces lifecycle costs. Here’s how we add value:
- Design Integration: We work collaboratively with design teams to ensure compliance strategies are baked into the earliest project phases.
- Energy Modeling Expertise: Our engineers produce precise models to meet all documentation requirements and improve energy efficiency.
- Compliance Assurance: We handle the entire compliance process—from load calculations to verification—so you can focus on delivering your vision.
- Cost Optimization: We identify smart design strategies that meet standards without inflating budgets.
Don’t Let Title 24 Delay Your 2025 Projects
Title 24 in 2025 is about more than stricter rules—it’s about smarter, cleaner, and more efficient buildings. By planning proactively, you’ll ensure faster approvals, lower long-term costs, and a competitive edge in a sustainability-driven market.
Ready to streamline your project’s compliance process? Contact K2D Consulting Engineers today to get started with a team that understands both the code—and how to use it to your advantage.
Call 310.935.3773 or visit www.K2D.com to learn more.
