Make the Grade: Designing to a Reach Code

Make the Grade: Designing to a Reach Code

September 8, 2021 | 1:00pm-2:30pm PT

Speakers:
Gina Rodda | Principal, Owner, Gabel Energy

In California, cities and counties may elect to adopt ordinances that require increased efficiency and performance beyond the state’s minimum requirements. They must be cost effective and approved by the California Energy Commission. Such ordinances are referred to as Reach Codes. In this webinar, we will break down four major Reach Code categories and how to approach them in terms of design considerations. We’ll also learn how you can grade your project to best balance the various related components of compliance. we will do a deep dive on: 

• All-Electric: Mechanical equipment that meets the all-electric requirements AND those of the 2019 Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) including heat pump space heating and water heating, dipping a little deeper into what that means for residential occupancies (multifamily and hotel/motel). Building features can meet a grade of “C” or better, but now there are space and electrical considerations.
• Mixed-Fuel: If gas is used for space heating, water heating and/or appliances, a compliance margin that is better than minimum is required. The design team must work together to determine the pathway to increased compliance stringency (building features meeting a grade of “A/B”). Electric-ready at all appliances using gas changes design considerations (location and electrical infrastructure).
• PV required: Nonresidential and high-rise multifamily buildings are required to have PV installed even though the Energy Code does not require it.
• LA County: Cool Roof requirements and how that may change your roof design.

Click here to view a PDF of the presentation.