Building Codes Assistance Project

[Updated October 28, 2008]

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has completed the rulemaking process for the 2008 Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (Title 24, Part 6, of the California Code of Regulations). The Energy Commission adopted the 2008 Standards on April 23, 2008, and the Building Standards Commission approved them for publication on September 11, 2008.

A first analysis of the 2008 code revealed an average energy performance at least 21% more efficient than ASHRAE 90.1-2004. Even better results are likely after more definitive testing. The new standards will be effective July 1, 2009.

California's building efficiency standards (along with those for energy efficient appliances) have saved more than $56 billion in electricity and natural gas costs since 1978. It is estimated the standards will save an additional $23 billion by 2013.

The CEC has posted the second and final draft of the Residential Compliance Manual. It has also posted a second draft of the Nonresidential Compliance Manual.

For more information, please visit the California Energy Commission's website.

For California code status information, please consult the BCAP California Code Status page.