# California’s Building Code: Energy Efficiency Measures

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/06/californias-building-code-energy-efficiency-measures/
- Published: 2012-06-01T23:15:26-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## California’s Building Code is Green : Poised to Save Billions

California is once again leading the way in energy efficiency with its building 
code. The California Energy Commission (CEC) approved updated [building efficiency standards](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/08/energy-efficiency-programs-save-uc-21-million-per-year/)
that will cut energy use in new homes and businesses by 25%. These new codes, set
to take effect on January 1, 2014, are projected to save California residents and
businesses over $1 billion over a three-year period.

### California’s Building Code : Smarter, Bigger Savings

California’s new building code standards apply to residential and nonresidential
buildings alike. Builders must now install better insulation, energy-efficient windows,
and improved lighting systems. In addition, they are required to include measures
that reduce heating and cooling loads. Because of these changes, buildings will 
consume less power while maintaining comfort.

![Text based digital graphic reading californias building code energy efficiency
measures in bold uppercase letters on a soft yellow background](https://i0.wp.com/
greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/598523D1-8466-435C-A973-06FF9E15D154.
png?resize=780%2C780&quality=50&ssl=1 "598523D1-8466-435C-A973-06FF9E15D154 - The
Green Living Guy")

California raises the bar with strict energy efficiency measures embedded in its
building code setting a national standard for sustainable construction

California already had some of the most progressive codes in the nation. However,
the 2013 standards raise the bar even higher. In fact, the CEC expects the new rules
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and further lower statewide energy demand.

### Benefits for Homeowners and Businesses

Homeowners will benefit immediately. New homes built under the 2013 standards will
use 30% less energy than those built under the 2008 rules. As a result, monthly 
utility bills will drop significantly. While construction costs may increase slightly,
long-term savings will more than make up for it.

Businesses, especially those constructing new offices or facilities, also stand 
to gain. Not only do energy-efficient buildings save money, but they also attract
environmentally conscious tenants and customers. Most importantly,[ energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/08/10-largest-wind-project-development-2022/)
savings increase over time, offering a strong return on investment.

### A Model for the Nation

California’s energy efficiency push doesn’t stop here. The updated code supports
the state’s long-term goal of achieving zero-net energy buildings—structures that
produce as much energy as they consume—by 2020 for homes and 2030 for commercial
buildings.

Because of California’s size and influence, other states often follow its lead. 
These new standards could inspire a nationwide shift toward smarter, greener buildings.

Sources:

 * [California Energy Commission](https://www.energy.ca.gov/)
 * [U.S. Department of Energy – Building Energy Codes Program](https://www.energycodes.gov/)
 * [Natural Resources Defense Council – Energy Efficiency](https://www.nrdc.org/issues/energy-efficiency)

Original..Today the California Energy Commission will vote to adopt [new energy efficiency standards for residential and commercial buildings](https://web.archive.org/web/20181130054909/https://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/2013standards/rulemaking/)
in California.

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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