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February 8, 2023CEC Energy Code To Require Solar + Storage In 2023
CEC Energy Code To Require Solar + Storage In 2023
In 2023, California became 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 panel mandate comes into effect on January 1, 2023, for the following commercial properties: grocery, high-rise residential projects, office buildings, financial institutions, unleased tenant spaces, retail, educational institutions, warehouses, auditoriums, convention centers, hotels/motels, libraries, medical offices, buildings/clinics, and theaters.
Depending on variables established in the CEC’s guidance, some developments may be exempt due to available roof space or other requirements.
Revel Energy is partnering with Commercial Developers, Solar Contractors, General Contractors, and Architects to help provide more clarity on the solar energy requirements within the building standards.
Commercial Properties Facing Rising Electricity Costs
As grid electricity prices continue on a sky-high trajectory, this new requirement will come at a higher initial investment for new commercial property development and businesses. Commercial projects that integrate solar panel installation and battery storage systems will see long-term savings on energy costs. Solar energy investments have become proven solutions that provide true sustainability, reducing operating costs with lower cost of electricity throughout the life of the system.
Example of Watts Times Conditioned Square Footage for an Office Park
Minimum sized solar panel 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 building is approximately 2.6 watts per 1 square foot of conditioned space. If an office building 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 building has a solar system that generated more than $75,000 worth of energy cost savings in its first year of operation.
This table is a general guidance provided by the California Energy Commission for system sizes required solar-only systems plus battery storage requirements on new and some retrofit construction.
Sustainability is the Goal for The California Energy Commission
The CEC stands behind the worldwide renewable energy effort in the solar industry, shaping California’s three biggest investor-owned utilities toward renewable sources. The updated code is available here, where the lead commissioner on clean energy innovation 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 energy systems and solar energy storage will become less competitive – as their operating costs are paired with grid electricity prices that 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 solar incentive programs and financial incentives. Contact us today to learn more about:
- Battery incentives for battery systems
- Maximizing Solar Renewable Energy Certificates for solar energy self-consumption
- Utilizing credit for energy storage for systems with battery storage
- The best solar installers for your solar installation
- Exploring prices from installers for your project
- Tax benefits for solar panel owners and residential customers
- Solutions for limited roof space, seasonal properties, and vacation homes
- Optimizing solar program options, including billing programs and solar network connections.
Embrace abundant sunshine and a sustainable future by investing in a solar energy capacity that aligns with solar cities and contributes to a healthier city.
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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