New Energy Standards Approved in California

The California Energy Commission recently approved dozens of energy-efficiency building standards for new construction. Title 24, “2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards,” regulates construction of residential and non-residential buildings. The standards have been updated to include code regulations for lighting; windows; roofing; skylights; swimming pool and spa equipment; and heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment.

Many of the changes in the standards are tailored to help reduce overall energy use, as well as peak energy use. It is expected that the standards will cut the state’s peak energy demand by 129MW the first year they are in effect and increase cumulatively in subsequent years. For more information on the “2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards,” visit the Energy Commission’s Web site.