Title 24 · California Energy Code

How does the Power Allocation Method determine total kVA required (Table 5.106.5.3.6)?

If you choose the Power Allocation Method under **§ 5.106.5.3.6**, pick the parking-space bracket in **Table 5.106.5.3.6** (or use P × 0.20 × 6.6 for 201+ spaces) to find the minimum total kVA the site must provide. You may meet that kVA with any mix of EV-capable infrastructure, Level 2 chargers and fast chargers — but you must install at least one Level 2 EVSE and respect caps on how much kVA can be counted from EV-capable (infrastructure-only) spaces. file

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The Power Allocation Method lets a project meet the EV charging infrastructure requirement by providing a specified total electrical capacity in kVA for the parking facility instead of a fixed number of dedicated EVSE or EV-capable spaces. The controlling rule is § 5.106.5.3.6: use Table 5.106.5.3.6 to find the minimum total kVA required based on the facility’s total number of actual parking spaces.

In short: pick the parking-space bracket in Table 5.106.5.3.6 and provide at least the table’s total kVA (or compute P × 0.20 × 6.6 for 201+ spaces).

Requirements in detail

What you read from the table

  • The table is indexed by the TOTAL NUMBER OF ACTUAL PARKING SPACES. For each bracket the table gives a MINIMUM TOTAL kVA (values are expressed at a 6.6 kVA basis). For facilities with 201 and over spaces the table uses a formula rather than a fixed number.

  • The Power Allocation Method allows the owner to supply that total kVA with any combination of:

    • EV capable spaces,
    • low-power Level 2,
    • Level 2 EVSE, or
    • DCFC (fast chargers).
      At least one Level 2 EVSE must be provided on-site. Level 2 EVSE is assumed at 6.6 kVA minimum in the table.

Decision-relevant values (short table)

Parking-spaces bracket Minimum total kVA (6.6 kVA basis) Code Reference
1–9 0 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
10–25 26.4 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
26–50 52.8 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
51–75 85.8 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
76–100 112.2 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
101–150 165 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
151–200 231 kVA § 5.106.5.3.6
201 and over Total kVA = P × 0.20 × 6.6 (where P = # of parking spaces) § 5.106.5.3.6

Notes on the table:

  • The table values are presented at a 6.6 kVA basis (this is the assumed minimum for a Level 2 EVSE).
  • The Power Allocation Method may be used as an alternative to the fixed-space/EVSE approach in § 5.106.5.3.1 and related tables.

Allocation and limits you must respect

  • You may use any combination of EV-capable spaces, low-power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSE to sum to the required kVA. At least one Level 2 EVSE must be installed.
  • There are limits on how much of the table kVA may come from plain “EV capable” (infrastructure-only) spaces:
    • Maximum allowed kVA from EV capable spaces = 75% (general).
    • For office and retail buildings the maximum from EV capable spaces = 25%.

Rounding and counting rules

  • When calculations for a number of spaces are required elsewhere, round up to the nearest whole number (this rounding rule appears in the related notes to the EV sections and appendices).

Exceptions & special cases

  • The Power Allocation Method is explicitly an alternative to the EV-capable / EVSE count method in § 5.106.5.3.1 and associated tables; it does not replace other electrical code requirements (California Electrical Code) or accessibility rules (CBC Chapter 11B).
  • For 201+ spaces you must compute required kVA using the formula P × 0.20 × 6.6 (P = parking spaces). This is how the table scales for large facilities.
  • The table and method require at least one Level 2 EVSE on site even if the required kVA is otherwise met by DCFC or EV-capable-only infrastructure.
  • The scheme does not override local enforcement decisions where utility constraints or other feasibility issues have been demonstrated — see the exceptions listed under § 5.106.5.3 for feasibility carve-outs.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: reading the table as “number of chargers required” instead of “total kVA required.” The table prescribes kVA — not a count of installed EVSE. Use the kVA to design circuits and choose EVSE combinations.
  • Mistake: assuming every kVA must be delivered by Level 2 equipment. The code permits any combination (including DCFC), but at least one Level 2 EVSE must be present.
  • Mistake: exceeding the permitted percentage of kVA supplied solely by EV capable spaces (not installing EVSE or active circuits). Remember the 75% cap (or 25% for office/retail).
  • Mistake: forgetting to account for the 201+ formula. For large parking facilities you must compute kVA using P × 0.20 × 6.6; do not pick the nearest fixed bracket.
  • Mistake: not coordinating with the electrical service sizing and distribution design — the Power Allocation Method sets required EV kVA but you still must ensure the site service/transformer capacity, breakers, raceways and labeling meet the Electrical Code and § 5.106.5.3.1 infrastructure requirements when EV capable spaces are used.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A retail/office complex with 120 parking spaces wants to comply using the Power Allocation Method.

  1. Find the bracket: 101–150 parking spaces. The table value is 165 kVA (6.6 kVA basis). § 5.106.5.3.6 requires you to provide at least 165 kVA of capacity for EV charging.

  2. Choose how to supply the 165 kVA (examples):

    • Option A: Install 25 Level 2 EVSE at 6.6 kVA each → 25 × 6.6 = 165 kVA (meets requirement). Must still provide at least one Level 2 EVSE (satisfied).
    • Option B: Provide 150 kVA via Level 2 circuits (e.g., ~23 × 6.6 kVA) plus 15 kVA via one or more DCFC(s) — total ≥ 165 kVA (permitted). But for an office/retail building remember the EV capable kVA cap is 25% if you rely on EV-capable spaces to meet some kVA — plan accordingly.

  3. Verify limits: If you intended to meet the entire 165 kVA by counting EV-capable (infrastructure-only) spaces (i.e., spaces without installed EVSE), you cannot credit more than 25% of the kVA from EV-capable spaces for office/retail; the remainder must be active EVSE or other allowed equipment.

Worked example for 201+ formula:

  • Facility with 250 parking spaces: required kVA = 250 × 0.20 × 6.6 = 250 × 1.32 = 330 kVA required. Provide any combination of EVSE/EV-capable/DCFC totaling at least 330 kVA, observing the EV-capable percentage limits.

Related provisions

  • § 5.106.5.3.1 — EV capable spaces (raceways, panel space and reserved capacity requirements for EV capable spaces).
  • § 5.106.5.3.2 — Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) (receptacle configurations; DCFC credit toward EV-capable counts).
  • § 5.106.5.3.3 — Use of Automatic Load Management Systems (ALMS) (how ALMS can reduce required electrical load capacity).
  • Table 5.106.5.3.1 — EV-capable / EVCS counts (alternative approach the power-allocation method replaces).
  • Appendix Tables A5.106.5.3.2 / A5.106.5.3.4 — Tier 1 / Tier 2 voluntary power-allocation tables (similar structure & notes). file

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • § 5.106.5.3.3 High relevance — show source text

    5.106.5.3.3 Use of automatic load management systems (ALMS). ALMS shall be permitted for EVCS. When ALMS is installed, the required electrical load capacity specified in Section 5.106.5.3.1 for each EVCS may be reduced when serviced by an EVSE controlled by an ALMS. Each EVSE controlled by an ALMS shall deliver a minimum 30 amperes to an EV when charging one vehicle and shall deliver a minimum 3.3 kW while simultaneously charging multiple EVs.

    5.106.5.3.4 Accessible electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) . When EVSE is installed, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, Section 11B-228.3.

    5.106.5.3.5 Electric vehicle charging station signage. Electric vehicle charging stations shall be identified by signage or pavement markings in compliance with Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s).

    5.106.5.3.6 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method. The power allocation method may be used as an alternative to the requirements in Section 5.106.5.3.1, Section 5.106.5.3.2 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1. Use Table 5.106.5.3.6 to determine the total power in kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces.

    Power allocation method shall include the following:

    1. Use any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSEs.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    TABLE 5.106.5.3.6-EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF ACTUAL
    PARKING SPACES    		 MINIMUM TOTAL kVA
    @ 6.6 kVA    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED IN ANY
    **COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,4, **
    LOW POWER LEVEL 2, LEVEL 21, 2,
    OR DCFC    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED IN ANY
    COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE4, 5,
    LOW POWER LEVEL 2, LEVEL 21, 2,
    OR DCFC
    1–9 0 0 0
    10–25 26.4 26.4 26.4
    26–50 52.8 52.8 52.8
    51–75 85.8 85.8 85.8
    76–100 112.2 112.2 112.2
    101–150 165 165 165
    151–200 231 231 231
    201 and over 20 percent of actual parking
    spaces × 6.6    		 Total required kVA = P × .20 × 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility    		 Total required kVA = P × .20 × 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility
    1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2.
  • § 5.106.5.3.6 High relevance — show source text
    TABLE 5.106.5.3.6-EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF ACTUAL
    PARKING SPACES    		 MINIMUM TOTAL kVA
    @ 6.6 kVA    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED IN ANY
    **COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,4, **
    LOW POWER LEVEL 2, LEVEL 21, 2,
    OR DCFC    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED IN ANY
    COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE4, 5,
    LOW POWER LEVEL 2, LEVEL 21, 2,
    OR DCFC
    1–9 0 0 0
    10–25 26.4 26.4 26.4
    26–50 52.8 52.8 52.8
    51–75 85.8 85.8 85.8
    76–100 112.2 112.2 112.2
    101–150 165 165 165
    151–200 231 231 231
    201 and over 20 percent of actual parking
    spaces × 6.6    		 Total required kVA = P × .20 × 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility    		 Total required kVA = P × .20 × 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility
    1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4.
  • § 106.5.3.2 High relevance — show source text

    Power allocation method shall include the following:

    1. Use any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSEs.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    TABLE A5.106.5.3.2—TIER 1 EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF
    ACTUAL PARKING SPACES    		 MINIMUM TOTAL kVA
    @ 6.6 kVA    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV
    CAPABLE3, 4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV
    CAPABLE3, 4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC
    1–9 13.2 13.2 13.2
    10–25 33 33 33
    26–50 72.6 72.6 72.6
    51–75 125.4 125.4 125.4
    76–100 171.6 171.6 171.6
    101–150 250.8 250.8 250.8
    151–200 349.8 349.8 349.8
    201 and over 30 percent of
    actual parking spaces× 6.6    		 Total required kVA = P× .30× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility    		 Total required kVA = P× .30× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility
    1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1.
  • § 106.5.3.4 High relevance — show source text

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    TABLE A5.106.5.3.4—TIER 2 EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF
    ACTUAL PARKING
    SPACES    		 MINIMUM TOTAL kVA
    @ 6.6 kVA    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,
    4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,
    4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC
    1–9 19.8 19.8 19.8
    10–25 52.8 52.8 52.8
    26–50 112.2 112.2 112.2
    51–75 184.8 184.8 184.8
    76–100 264.0 264 264
    101–150 376.2 376.2 376.2
    151–200 521.4 521.4 521.4
    201 and over 45 percent of
    actual parking spaces× 6.6    		 Total required kVA = P× .45× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility    		 Total required kVA = P× .45× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility
    1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1.
  • § 106.5.3.2 High relevance — show source text

    Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|

    A5.106.5.3.2 Tier 1 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method. The power allocation method may be used as an alternative to the requirements in Section 5.106.5.3.1, Section 5.106.5.3.2, and associated Table A5.106.5.3.1. Use Table A5.106.5.3.2 to determine the total power in kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces.

    APPENDIX A5-6 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    Power allocation method shall include the following:

    1. Use any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSEs.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    TABLE A5.106.5.3.2—TIER 1 EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF
    ACTUAL PARKING SPACES    		 MINIMUM TOTAL kVA
    @ 6.6 kVA    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV
    CAPABLE3, 4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV
    CAPABLE3, 4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC
    1–9 13.2 13.2 13.2
    10–25 33 33 33
    26–50 72.6 72.6 72.6
    51–75 125.4 125.4 125.4
    76–100 171.6 171.6 171.6
    101–150 250.8 250.8 250.8
    151–200 349.8 349.8 349.8
    201 and over 30 percent of
    actual parking spaces× 6.6    		 Total required kVA = P× .
  • § 6.6 High relevance — show source text

    6|Total required kVA = P× .30× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility|Total required kVA = P× .30× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility| |1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|

    A5.106.5.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces, Section 5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations and associated Table A5.106.5.3.3, or Section A5.106.5.3.4 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method and associated Table A5.106.5.3.4.

    Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.2 for the permitted use of Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) to create EVCS. Refer to Section 5.106.3.2.1 for the allowed use of DCFC to comply with both EV capable spaces and Level 2 EVSE. Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.3 for the allowed use of Automatic Load Management System (ALMS).

  • § 5.106.5.3.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    5.106.5.3.2.1 Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:

    1. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R
    2. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R
    3. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R

    5.106.5.3.2.2 EV charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC or SAE J3400 connectors.

    When using level 2 SAE J3400 SAE connectors, supplied by a 480 V 3-phase service, at least 20 percent of the EV charger connectors shall be SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC.

    5.106.5.3.2.3 The installation of each DCFC EVSE shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces without EVSE or EVCS with Level 2 EVSE by five, and reduce proportionally the required electrical load capacity to the service panel or subpanel.

    5.106.5.3.2.4 The installation of two low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces without EVSE in Table 5.106.5.3.1 by one.

    5.106.5.3.2.4.1 Raceway capacity requirements. To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such receptacles shall be sized to allow the installation of a dedicated 208/240-volt 40-ampere branch circuit. Where no raceway is used, the conductors shall be sized to accommodate a 208/240-volt 40-ampere receptacle.

    5.106.5.3.3 Use of automatic load management systems (ALMS). ALMS shall be permitted for EVCS. When ALMS is installed, the required electrical load capacity specified in Section 5.106.5.3.1 for each EVCS may be reduced when serviced by an EVSE controlled by an ALMS. Each EVSE controlled by an ALMS shall deliver a minimum 30 amperes to an EV when charging one vehicle and shall deliver a minimum 3.3 kW while simultaneously charging multiple EVs.

    5.106.5.3.4 Accessible electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) . When EVSE is installed, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, Section 11B-228.3.

    5.106.5.3.5 Electric vehicle charging station signage. Electric vehicle charging stations shall be identified by signage or pavement markings in compliance with Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s).

    5.106.5.3.6 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method. The power allocation method may be used as an alternative to the requirements in Section 5.106.5.3.1, Section 5.106.5.3.2 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1. Use Table 5.106.5.3.6 to determine the total power in kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces.

  • § 5.106.5.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|

    A5.106.5.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces, Section 5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations and associated Table A5.106.5.3.3, or Section A5.106.5.3.4 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method and associated Table A5.106.5.3.4.

    Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.2 for the permitted use of Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) to create EVCS. Refer to Section 5.106.3.2.1 for the allowed use of DCFC to comply with both EV capable spaces and Level 2 EVSE. Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.3 for the allowed use of Automatic Load Management System (ALMS).

    TABLE A5.106.5.3.3—TIER 2 EV CAPABLE SPACES AND EVCS Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF
    ACTUAL PARKING SPACES    		 NUMBER OF
    REQUIRED EV CAPABLE SPACES    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    NUMBER OF REQUIRED EVCS2, 3    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    NUMBER OF REQUIRED EVCS2, 3
    1–9 3 2 2
    10–25 8 4 6
    26–50 17 9 13
    51–75 28 14 21
    76–100 40 20 30
    101–150 57 29 43
    151–200 79 40 59
    201 and over 45 percent of actual parking spaces1 50 percent of EV capable spaces1 75 percent of EV capable spaces1
    1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.    		 1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.    		 1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.    		 1.
  • § 140.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    A

    Above Grade Wall 140.3(a)9, 150.0(c), 160.1(b) Accent Luminaire 140.6(c)3G, 170.2(e)4 Accent, Display and Feature 140.6(b)4 Acceptance Requirements 10-103(a), 100.1(b), 110.6(a)6, 120.5(a), 120.6(a)7, 120.6(b)6, 120.6(c)8, 120.6(e)8, 120.6(f)5, 120.6(g)2, 120.6(i)4, 130.4(a), 140.9(b)3, 140.9(c)3-4, 160.3(d)1-2, 160.5(e)1 Acceptance Test Technician Certification Provider 10-103(a)4B, 10103.1(a), 10-109(i)B, 120.5(b), 130.4(c), 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e)3 Acceptance Testing 10-103(a)4, 10-103.1(a-b), 10-103.1(c)3, 10-103(e), 10-103.2(a-b), 120.5(b), 130.4(c), 141.0(b)2I, 141.0(b)2L, 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e)3, 180.2(4)B2 Actual Outdoor Lighting Power 140.7(a), 170.2(e)6 Addition Or Alteration 120.6(b)1–4, 140.9(b)1–2, 150.2(c), 180.4 Additional Credit 141.0(b)3C, 150.2(b)2, 180.2(c)2 Additional Fan Power Allowances 141.0(b)2C, Table 141.0-D Additional Multifamily Lighting Power Allowance for Specific Applications Table 170.2-S Additions 10-103(a)1C, 2A, 3D, 10-103(d)2, 10-106(a), 100.0(e)3, Table 100.0-A, Table 110.2-E, 120.0, Table 120.2-A, 120.6(c), 120.6(e), 130.0(a-b), 140.0, 140.6(a), 140.7(a), 141.0, 141.0(a), 141.1, 141.1(b–c), 150.0,150.1(a–b), 150.2, 150.2(a, c), 160.0, Table 160.3-C, 160.5(b), 170.0(a), 170.2(e)6A, 180.0, 180.1(a–b), 180.4 Adiabatic Gas Cooler 120.6(a)8, 120.6(b)5 Adjusted Indoor Lighting Power 140.6, 140.6(a)2 Adjustment Credits 180.2(b) Adjustment Factor 130.4(a, b, d), 140.6(a)2, 4, 140.6(c)3G, H, Table 140.6-A,

  • § 130.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    type or area|All lighting
    disaggregated by floor,
    type or area| |HVAC systems and components including
    chillers, fans, heaters, furnaces, package
    units, cooling towers and circulation
    pumps associated with HVAC|Not required|All HVAC in aggregate|All HVAC in aggregate
    and each HVAC load rated
    at least 50 kVA|All HVAC in aggregate
    and each HVAC load
    rated at least 50 kVA| |Domestic and service water system
    pumps and related systems and
    components|Not required|All loads in aggregate|All loads in aggregate|All loads in aggregate| |Plug load including appliances rated less
    than 25 kVA|Not required|All plug load in aggregate
    Groups of plug loads
    exceeding 25 kVA connected
    load in an area less than
    5000 sf|All plug load separated by
    floor, type or area
    Groups of plug loads exceeding
    25 kVA connected load in an
    area less than 5000 sf|All plug load separated
    by floor, type or area
    All groups of plug loads
    exceeding 25 kVA
    connected load in an
    area less than 5000 sf|

    102 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHTING SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT, AND ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

    TABLE 130.5-B—MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR SEPARATION OF ELECTRICAL LOAD—continued Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    ELECTRICAL LOAD TYPE ELECTRICAL
    SERVICES
    RATED 50
    kVA OR LESS    		 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
    RATED MORE THAN 50 kVA
    AND LESS THAN OR EQUAL
    TO 250 kVA    		 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
    RATED MORE THAN 250 kVA
    AND LESS THAN OR EQUAL
    TO 1000 kVA    		 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
    RATED MORE THAN
    1000 kVA
    Elevators, escalators, moving walks and
    transit systems    		 Not required All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate
    Other individual non-HVAC loads or
    appliances rated 25 kVA or greater    		 Not required All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate
    Industrial and commercial load centers
    25 kVA or greater, including theatrical
    lighting installations and commercial
    kitchens    		 Not required All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate
    Renewable power source (net or total) Each group Each group Each group Each group
    Loads associated with renewable power
    source    		 Not required All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate
    Charging stations for electric vehicles All loads in
    aggregate    		 All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate All loads in aggregate

    (c) Voltage drop. The maximum combined voltage drop on both installed feeder conductors and branch circuit conductors to the farthest connected load or outlet shall not exceed 5 percent.

  • § 0.53 Medium relevance — show source text

    5-inch
    orifice)|14 psi
    (0.53-inch
    orifice)|Not Applicable| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(5)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN
    METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETSa|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND|Racks more than 9
    feet to 12 feet deep|Racks more than 9
    feet to 12 feet deep|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8 feet 3
    inches horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    One line sprinklers
    above each level of
    storage
    3. Locate in
    transverse flue
    spaces, staggered
    vertical and within
    20 inches of aisle
    4.
    Shields required
    where multiple-
    level|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8 feet 3
    inches horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    See 2 above
    3.
    See 3 above
    4.
    See 4 above|Not Applicable| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(5)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN
    METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETSa|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND|Racks up
    to 9 feet deep|Racks up
    to 9 feet deep|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8
    feet 3 inches
    horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    One line
    sprinklers
    above each
    level of storage
    3.
    Locate in
    longitudinal
    flue space,
    staggered
    vertical
    4.
    Shields
    required where
    multiple-level|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8
    feet 3 inches
    horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    See 2 above
    3.
    See 3 above
    4.
    See 4 above|Not Applicable
    None for maximum
    6-foot-deep racks| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(5)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN
    METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETSa|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND|Maximum
    spacing|Maximum
    spacing|80 ft2/head|100 ft2/head|100 ft2/head| |**TABLE 5704.3.6.

Frequently asked questions

How do I convert table values into a number of Level 2 chargers?

Divide the required total kVA by 6.6 kVA (the table basis). Example: 165 kVA ÷ 6.6 kVA = 25 Level 2 EVSE (or equivalent combination).

Do I have to install DC fast chargers if I meet the kVA another way?

No — the code permits any combination (Level 2, low-power Level 2, DCFC, EV-capable) that sums to the table kVA, but you must still provide at least one Level 2 EVSE on site.

What if my building is office or retail — any special limits?

Yes. For office and retail buildings the maximum kVA credited from EV capable spaces is 25%; plan the active EVSE/DCFC portion accordingly.

For large garages (201+ spaces) how do I compute kVA?

Use the formula Total kVA = P × 0.20 × 6.6, where P is the number of parking spaces. Example: 250 spaces → 330 kVA.

Does the Power Allocation Method remove my obligation to size the electrical service?

No. The Power Allocation Method sets required EV kVA, but you must still ensure the service, transformers, panels, raceways, overcurrent protection and labeling comply with the California Electrical Code and the EV-capable provisions.

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