Starting
in 2020, California is implementing building code revisions to Title 24. Title
24 is a set of building codes that are updated about every two years with the
goal of making buildings/houses more energy efficient and healthier for the
occupants. This sounds great, but it does add additional costs for new
construction.
The
legislators’ goal is to have all new residential housing built starting in 2020
to be Zero Net Energy (ZNE). Net Zero Energy means that any energy used is
offset by renewable power produced onsite, which might mean fireplaces will not
be permitted. In theory, all new houses will be designed and built to use less
energy and produce enough energy to cover their use of energy. I say in theory,
since the energy used in a house will greatly depend on the occupants.
Some
of the goals will be accomplished by controlling the power at outlets to new
standards for lighting. Since the most common and acceptable way to produce
power for a house is solar panels, the hope is that there will be development
in the technology to cost effectively store power when there is less or no sun.
A neighborhood with houses covered in solar panels puts a lot of stress on the
electric grid when a cloud floats by and at the moment the sun sets. Another
option is small windmills.
Since
the new code will affect all new construction making new homes more expensive,
it will have a residual effect on existing homes. But wait, this effect could be very significant
as California Energy Commission (CEC) is pushing legislation to require homes
for resale, existing homes, to meet the new standards at the close of sale.
Once people realize
the implication of this requirement, I predict there will be a spike in
existing homes closer we get to 2020.
If
you would like more information below are some links.
