California Code

Sizing a PV System for the 2022 Energy Code

The 2022 California Energy Code, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2023, has a new requirement for renewable energy systems for multi-family and non-residential projects. The calculation is based on conditioned floor area, building use, climate zone and other factors. Although the requirement is prescriptive, almost all projects will need to include PVs and batteries in order to meet the thresholds for reducing carbon emissions.

Here’s a 6-minute video where we walk through the Prescriptive method for sizing a standard baseline PV system, the results of which can be used to inform the design team of PV parameters and constraints early in the design process. 

For your specific project be sure to review the code language as to allowable exceptions, especially if it appears your project may not receive much sunlight, or may have a small solar accessible roof area.

More questions? Reach out: andy@inbalancegreen.com

New 2022 "Electric-ready" Requirements for Multifamily Buildings

You may have heard that newly constructed single-family homes in California have to be “electric ready,” but did you know that under the new 2022 Energy Code, that requirement has been extended for new multifamily buildings of all sizes? 

Under the 2022 Energy Code to take effect January 1, 2023, gas appliances installed for individual dwelling units must also include the electrical infrastructure to allow for the easy transition to electric heat pump technology for space conditioning and hot water generation, and energy-efficient electric options for cooking and cloths drying. 

For multifamily project this could be a significant cost consideration. The Energy Code does not dictate whether a project uses natural gas, but it does prevent a new project from precluding the current owner or future ownership from easily and cost effectively making the necessary switch to electric and presumably cleaner energy.

The Energy Code includes language for accommodating minimum physical space for future heat pump water heaters, adjacency requirements for the location of dedicated circuitry, and panel/subpanel wiring and labeling.

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