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CEC Energy Code To Require Solar + Storage In 2023
In 2023, California will become the first state to require both solar PV and energy storage systems on all new and some retrofit commercial buildings, as the California Energy Commission (CEC) updated their 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards.
This solar plus storage mandate comes into effect January 1, 2023 for the following commercial properties; grocery, high-rise multifamily, office, financial institutions, unleased tenant space, retail, school, warehouse, auditorium, convention center, hotel/motel, library, medical office, building/clinic, and theaters.
Depending on variables established in the CEC’s guidance, some developments may be exempt due to available space or other requirements.
Revel Energy is partnering with Commercial Developers, General Contractors and Architects to help provide more clarity on the energy code mandates.
Commercial Properties Facing Rising Electricity Costs
As utility electricity rates continue on a sky-high trajectory, this new requirement will come at a higher upfront cost for new commercial property development and businesses. Commercial solar and energy storage have become proven investments that provide true sustainability, reducing operating costs with lower electric bills throughout the life of the system.
Example of Watts Times Conditioned Square Footage for an Office Park
Minimum sized systems will depend on the intended use of the building and will be sized by a Watts times Conditioned Square Footage.
- A general example of minimum wattage needed for an office park is approximately 2.6 watts per 1 square foot of conditioned space. If an office park has 200,000 square feet of conditioned space, the property would need 520,000 watts or a 520 kilowatt system to meet requirements.
- A similar office park has a solar PV system that generated more than $75,000 dollars worth of electricity savings in its first year of operation.
This table is a general guidance provided by the California Energy Commission for system sizes required solar PV plus storage on new and some retrofit construction.
Sustainability is the Goal for The California Energy Commission
The CEC stands behind worldwide push for sustainability in the building energy efficiency standards for residential and nonresidential buildings. The updated code is available here, where the lead commissioner on energy efficiency said;
“The 2022 Energy Code firmly pivots California’s buildings toward the clean, low-carbon technologies that are the bedrock on which our collective path forward will rest. This foundation will help the state meet its critical long-term climate and carbon neutrality goals.”
As Commercial Construction Requires Solar Plus Storage In California - Partner with Revel Energy
As this new requirement is imposed, businesses without solar and energy storage will become less competitive – as their operating costs are paired with utility electricity rates as they continue to rise.
Don’t let the utility dictate how you pay for energy, partner with Revel Energy to make a clear plan for these energy code changes. Contact us today to learn more.
Commercial grade rooftop solar is ideal for: manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, industrial, retail, hospitality buildings and more with over 10,000 sq. ft. rooftops.
CARPORT SOLAR
Free standing carport solar generates added solar power for properties with limited rooftop space. Added benefits include shading and protection for employees vehicles.
Crucial for reducing peak demand charges. Automated to supply electricity when your panels won’t. Energy storage is ideal for businesses that incur significant peak charges.
As the popularity of electric vehicles increase, so does the demand for on-site charging. This sustainable amenity has become a parking lot fixture for competitive employers.
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Client Testimonial: Kelemen Company
Corporate Business Park in Irvine, CA has created significant electricity cost savings through commercial solar installed across the 5-building business park.
Client Testimonial: Tice Gardner & Fujimoto LLP
See how this CPA firm saved on electricity and gained valuable tax credits through commercial solar that they used to keep cash in the businesses.
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