What is Green Globes?
Green Globes is a building certification program administered by the Green Building Initiative, a company with resources and goals very similar to that of LEED or GreenPoint Rated. This program is designed to lower your annual energy and operating costs, better...
B.U.G. Rating Requirements: Simplifying the Complex
There are many overlaps in the various sections of the California Building Code, especially between CALGreen and the Energy Code. While CALGreen measures focus on environmental responsibility, site development, and enhancement, the Energy Code contains envelope,...
Critical Peak Pricing
Critical Peak Pricing (CPP) is an optional program offered by Southern California Edison that allows businesses to receive significantly lower prices in the summer (June 1 – September 30). Lower summer rates are given in exchange for higher prices throughout 12...
3 California Cities with Above Code Energy Requirements
When it comes to complying with the California Energy Code, many jurisdictions follow its language to the letter. However, several cities have begun rolling out more stringent energy requirements for new construction projects within their jurisdiction. This can...
Is Your Site Ready For HERS Testing? Top 5 Things You Need to Know
Under the 2016 Energy Standards, newly constructed residential buildings have mandatory and prescriptive HERS measures. These measures include duct leakage, ventilation airflow, indoor air quality, fan efficacy, and depending on the climate zone, refrigerant charge...
What Triggers Title 24 Lighting Controls in Existing Building Alterations?
California Building Energy Efficient Standards for Nonresidential Buildings has specific requirements to install lighting controls for “new” and “altered” general lighting. “New” lighting is pretty easy to understand. Construct a new building or build out a new space,...
When is a Vapor Barrier Required?
Why are vapor barriers required? Take your cold soda can or glass of ice water: what happens to the exterior of that container when sitting on your table? It develops condensate. Why? Because the temperature of the container falls below the dew point temperature given...
Solar Zone Requirements: Top 5 Things Architects and Owners Should Know Prior to Permit Submittal
California Building Energy Efficient Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings have been moving the needle towards mandatory solar installation. In the 2016 Energy Code cycle, a solar zone needs to be identified on all new construction projects. However,...