Title 24 · California Energy Code
How is conformance demonstrated for appliances that have been site‑modified or lack approved test protocols?
If an appliance has no Energy Commission certification or applicable approved field test protocol — or it was site‑modified so its performance changed — California’s Energy Code requires you either to accept the Part 6 mandatory efficiency baseline or to follow a procedure the Energy Commission approves under Section 10‑109; check the Energy Commission directories first, document any site modifications, and either use the Part 6 default or obtain/perform a Commission‑approved test method per **§ 110.1(c)** .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The code requires that when appliance efficiency data are not available through the Energy Commission directories, when a field verification protocol for an appliance does not exist, when an appliance has been site‑modified in a way that affects performance, or when a DOE waiver does not specify an efficiency method, conformance must be shown either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10‑109 of Title 24, Part 1. This requirement is stated in § 110.1(c) . Normally, Part 6 conformance is verified from the Energy Commission’s certified‑appliance database, a federal directory, or a Commission‑approved trade association directory per § 110.1(b) .
When an appliance’s published certification or an approved field test protocol is not available — or the appliance has been modified onsite so performance may have changed — you must either use the Part 6 mandatory default efficiency values or use a Commission‑approved procedure under Section 10‑109. § 110.1(c)
Requirements in detail
Two allowed demonstration paths (what to do)
- Path A — Default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6: Use the baseline mandatory values in Part 6 when verification data or test protocols are unavailable. This is one of the two options expressly authorized in § 110.1(c) .
- Path B — Follow Commission‑approved procedures under Section 10‑109, Title 24, Part 1: Use a testing or verification procedure that has been approved by the Energy Commission through the Section 10‑109 approval process when available and applicable. This is the alternate authorized route in § 110.1(c) .
When these paths apply — the triggering conditions in § 110.1(c)
- No available data in the approved directories (the Energy Commission database, an equivalent federal directory, or a Commission‑approved trade association directory) — see § 110.1(b) and § 110.1(c)(1) .
- Field verification and diagnostic testing is required but the Commission has not approved an applicable field protocol — see § 110.1(c)(2) .
- The appliance has been site‑modified in a way that affects its performance — see § 110.1(c)(3) . (The code text uses this phrase as the trigger; document the modification and how it impacts performance.)
- A DOE waiver from federal test procedures exists but fails to specify how to determine efficiency — see § 110.1(c)(4) .
Key defined/operational terms (bolded on first use)
- Site‑modified — an appliance altered onsite such that its performance may be different than certified; this condition is the explicit trigger in § 110.1(c)(3) .
- Field verification and diagnostic testing — testing performed onsite to verify installed performance; if a Commission protocol does not exist, § 110.1(c)(2) requires using the default or a Commission‑approved procedure .
- Default to the mandatory efficiency levels — using the Part 6 mandatory baseline efficiency values rather than test data when data or protocols are unavailable; authorized by § 110.1(c) .
- Commission‑approved procedure (Section 10‑109) — the formal approval route for alternate test/verification procedures referenced in § 110.1(c) .
Decision table — which path to use
| Decision dimension | If… | Required action | Code reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data available in Energy Commission database (or accepted federal/association directory) | data exists | Use directory/certification to verify conformance | § 110.1(b) |
| No directory data available | cannot find certified listing | Demonstrate conformance by default to Part 6 mandatory levels or follow Commission‑approved procedures under Section 10‑109 | § 110.1(c)(1) |
| Field testing required but no Commission field protocol exists | field verification needed, no protocol | Default to Part 6 mandatory levels or follow Commission‑approved procedure under Section 10‑109 | § 110.1(c)(2) |
| Appliance has been altered onsite affecting performance | site‑modified | Demonstrate conformance by default or Commission‑approved procedure (document the modification) | § 110.1(c)(3) |
| DOE waiver exists but does not specify efficiency method | waiver lacks method | Use default Part 6 levels or Commission‑approved procedure | § 110.1(c)(4) |
Exceptions & special cases
- The normal verification route remains the Energy Commission certified appliance database, an equivalent federal directory, or a Commission‑approved trade association directory; only when those are not usable does § 110.1(c) apply .
- Part 6 does not require on‑site testing of certified devices — meaning enforcement agencies typically accept manufacturer certification from approved directories; the special § 110.1(c) routes are for when that certification path is unavailable or inadequate .
- Where a Commission‑approved field test protocol does exist for an appliance, the protocol governs field verification (so only use § 110.1(c) when no approved protocol applies) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming any field test method is acceptable. If the Energy Commission has not approved the field protocol, you may not rely on it — use the default or seek a Commission‑approved procedure per § 110.1(c)(2) .
- Failing to check the Energy Commission database and other approved directories first. The directories in § 110.1(b) are the primary verification sources; § 110.1(c) is the fallback .
- Neglecting to document the site modification and how it affects performance. When relying on § 110.1(c)(3) you should record the modification and the rationale for using default or an approved alternate procedure .
- Treating a DOE waiver as a green light without checking whether that waiver specifies how to determine efficiency: if it does not, § 110.1(c)(4) requires defaulting or Commission approval .
Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule
Scenario: A small commercial kitchen installs a specialty gas convection oven that the manufacturer did not list in the Energy Commission database and no federal/trade directory entry exists. The installer also made an onsite burner modification to adapt the oven to a different gas pressure.
Steps to demonstrate conformance:
- Verify directories per § 110.1(b). You find no appliance certification listing, so the fallback in § 110.1(c)(1) applies .
- Note that the appliance was site‑modified (burner adjusted), which directly affects performance — this triggers § 110.1(c)(3) .
- Choose the allowed demonstration method:
- Option A: Declare conformance by defaulting to the mandatory Part 6 efficiency levels for that appliance category (document that you used the mandatory default per § 110.1(c)).
- Option B: Prepare and submit an alternate verification/test procedure to the Energy Commission under Section 10‑109, Title 24, Part 1 for approval; once approved, perform that approved procedure and submit results per § 110.1(c) .
- Document whichever path you take (copy of directory search showing no listing; description and photos of the site modification; statement of default or the Commission approval letter for the alternate procedure) for the enforcing agency to confirm compliance (the code anticipates the use of directory listings or approved procedures as the conformance evidence) .
Note: the code does not prescribe the exact submittal format for a Section 10‑109 request in § 110.1(c); follow the Section 10‑109 process and the Commission’s submittal instructions (Section 10‑109 is the approval mechanism referenced in § 110.1(c)) .
Related provisions
- § 110.1(a) — Manufacturer certification and installation requirements for appliances (general applicability) .
- § 110.1(b) — Primary verification methods: Energy Commission database, federal directory, or approved trade association directory (use these before § 110.1(c) fallbacks) .
- § 110.1(c) — The controlling fallback and approval routes described above .
- Section 10‑109, Title 24, Part 1 — Commission approval process referenced as the mechanism to accept alternate procedures (see § 110.1(c)) .
- See the Part 6 mandatory efficiency requirements (the “mandatory efficiency levels” referenced by § 110.1(c)) — locate the specific Part 6 tables and text for the appliance category in your project documents (Part 6 tables are the source of default values) .
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
§ 110.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES
(a) Any appliance regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1601 et seq., may be installed only if the appliance fully complies with Section 1608(a) of those regulations.
(b) Except for those circumstances described in Section 110.1(c), conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be verified utilizing data from either:
- The Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances maintained pursuant to Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606, and which is available at: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ ; or
- An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
- An approved trade association directory as defined in Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606(h).
(c) Conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be demonstrated either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10-109 of Title 24, Part 1, when:
- Data to verify conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards is not available pursuant to subdivision (b); or
- Field verification and diagnostic testing is required for compliance with Part 6 and the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification and diagnostic test protocol that is applicable to the appliance; or
- The appliance meets the requirements of Section 110.1(a) but has been site-modified in a way that affects its performance; or
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 39
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
- The U.S. Department of Energy has approved a waiver from federal test procedures, pursuant to 10 CFR Section 430.27 or Section 431.401 and that waiver fails to specify how the efficiency of the system shall be determined.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5
, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.SECTION 110.2—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SPACE-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT
Certification by manufacturers. Any space-conditioning equipment listed in this section may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the Commission that the equipment complies with all the applicable requirements of this section.
(a) Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable efficiency requirements in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, subject to the following:
- If more than one efficiency standard is listed for any equipment in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, the equipment shall meet all the applicable standards that are listed; and
- If more than one test method is listed in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, the equipment shall comply with the applicable efficiency standard when tested with each listed test method; and
§ 25218.5 High relevance — show source text
(b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.
- Appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations shall only be installed if they have been certified to the Energy Commission by the manufacturer, pursuant to the provisions of Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1606; or
- Systems, equipment, appliances and building components that are required by Part 6 or the Reference Appendices to be certified to the Energy Commission, which are not appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, shall only be installed if they are certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that: A. All the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable requirements of Part 6; and B. The equipment, product, or device was tested using the test procedure specified in Part 6 if applicable
- The certification status of any system, equipment, appliance or building component shall be confirmed only by reference to: A. A directory published or approved by the Commission; or B. A copy of the application for certification from the manufacturer and the letter of acceptance from the Commission staff; or C. Written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission-approved directory that a device has been certified; or D. A Commission-approved label on the device.
Note: Part 6 does not require a builder, designer, owner, operator, or enforcing agency to test any certified device to determine its compliance with minimum specifications or efficiencies adopted by the Commission.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5
, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES
(a) Any appliance regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1601 et seq., may be installed only if the appliance fully complies with Section 1608(a) of those regulations.
(b) Except for those circumstances described in Section 110.1(c), conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be verified utilizing data from either:
- The Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances maintained pursuant to Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606, and which is available at: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ ; or
- An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
- An approved trade association directory as defined in Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606(h).
(c) Conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be demonstrated either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10-109 of Title 24, Part 1, when:
- Data to verify conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards is not available pursuant to subdivision (b); or
- Field verification and diagnostic testing is required for compliance with Part 6 and the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification and diagnostic test protocol that is applicable to the appliance; or
§ 504.2.1.3 High relevance — show source text
- Testing should be conducted with the HVAC system operated at the minimum design outdoor air ventilation rate.
- Air samplers and monitors should be located near likely sources of formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds, at a height of 3 to 6 feet from the floor and well away from walls and air diffusers.
- The test protocols should be justified with documentation to show that appropriate sampling methods and times were used.
A5.504.2.1.3 Noncomplying building areas. For each sampling area of the building exceeding the maximum concentrations specified in Section A5.504.2.1.1, flush out with outside air and retest samples taken from the same area. Repeat the procedures until testing demonstrates compliance.
Note: US EPA-recognized testing protocols may be found on the Air Resources Board web site.
A5.504.4.5.1 No added formaldehyde Tier 1. Use composite wood products approved by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) as no-added formaldehyde (NAF) based resins or ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins.
Notes:
- See Title 17, Section 93120.3(c) and (d), respectively.
- Documentation must be provided verifying that materials are certified to meet the pollutant emission limits. A list of manufacturers and their NAF and ULEF certified materials is provided at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/ compwood/naf_ulef/listofnaf_ulef.htm.
A5.504.4.7 Resilient flooring systems, Tier 1. Where resilient flooring is installed, at least 90 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).
See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material
A5.504.4.7.1 Resilient flooring systems, Tier 2. Where resilient flooring is installed, 100 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).
See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material
A5.504.4.7.2 Verification of compliance. Documentation shall be provided verifying that resilient flooring materials meet the pollutant emission limits.
A5.504.4.8 Thermal insulation, Tier 1. Thermal insulation, No-added Formaldehyde. Install thermal insulation which complies with Tier 1 plus does not contain any added formaldehyde.
§ 504.2.1 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-35
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.504.2.1 IAQ testing. If the engineer determines that building flush-out pursuant to Section A5.504.2 is not feasible, a testing alternative may be employed after all interior finishes have been installed, using testing protocols recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA).
A5.504.2.1.1 Maximum levels of contaminants. Allowable levels of contaminant concentrations measured by testing shall not exceed the following:
- Carbon Monoxide (CO): 9 parts per million, not to exceed outdoor levels by 2 parts per million;
- Formaldehyde: 27 parts per billion;
- Particulates (PM10): 50 micrograms per cubic meter;
- 4-Phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH), if fabrics and carpets with styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) latex backing, are installed: 6.5 micrograms per cubic meter; and
- Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC): 300 micrograms per cubic meter.
A5.504.2.1.2 Test protocols. Testing of indoor air quality should include the following elements:
The contaminant sampling and averaging times and the measurement methods should be sufficient to achieve a Limit of Detection that is below the maximum allowable concentrations.
Testing should be conducted with the HVAC system operated at the minimum design outdoor air ventilation rate.
Air samplers and monitors should be located near likely sources of formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds, at a height of 3 to 6 feet from the floor and well away from walls and air diffusers.
The test protocols should be justified with documentation to show that appropriate sampling methods and times were used.
A5.504.2.1.3 Noncomplying building areas. For each sampling area of the building exceeding the maximum concentrations specified in Section A5.504.2.1.1, flush out with outside air and retest samples taken from the same area. Repeat the procedures until testing demonstrates compliance.
Note: US EPA-recognized testing protocols may be found on the Air Resources Board web site.
A5.504.4.5.1 No added formaldehyde Tier 1. Use composite wood products approved by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) as no-added formaldehyde (NAF) based resins or ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins.
Notes:
- See Title 17, Section 93120.3(c) and (d), respectively.
- Documentation must be provided verifying that materials are certified to meet the pollutant emission limits. A list of manufacturers and their NAF and ULEF certified materials is provided at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/ compwood/naf_ulef/listofnaf_ulef.htm.
§ 207.3.2 High relevance — show source text
A6.207.3.2 Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations as required by Section A6.210.1, subject to the following:
- If more than one standard is listed in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, the equipment shall meet all the standards listed; and
- If more than one test method is listed in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, the equipment shall comply with the applicable standard when tested with each test method; and
- Where equipment can serve more than one function, such as both heating and cooling or both space heating and water heating, it shall comply with all the requirements applicable to each function; and
- Where a requirement is for equipment rated at its “maximum rated capacity” or “minimum rated capacity,” the capacity shall be as provided for and allowed by the controls, during steady-state operation.
A6.207.3.3 Installation. Any service water-heating system or equipment may be installed only if the system or equipment complies with all of the applicable requirements of this subsection for the system or equipment.
A6.207.3.3.1 Outlet temperature controls. On systems that have a total capacity greater than 167,000 Btu/hr, outlets that require higher than service water temperatures as listed in the ASHRAE Handbook, Applications Volume, shall have separate remote heaters, heat exchangers or boosters to supply the outlet with the higher temperature.
A6.207.3.3.2 Temperature controls for public lavatories. The controls shall limit the outlet temperature to 110°F.
A6.207.3.3.3 Insulation. Unfired service water heater storage tanks and backup tanks for solar water-heating systems shall have:
External insulation with an installed R -value of at least R-12; or
Internal and external insulation with a combined R -value of at least R-16; or
The heat loss of the tank surface based on an 80°F water-air temperature difference shall be less than 6.5 Btu per hour per square foot.
A6.207.3.3.4 Service water heaters in state buildings. Any newly constructed building constructed by the State shall derive its service water heating from a system that provides at least 60 percent of the energy needed for service water heating from site solar energy or recovered energy.
Exception: Buildings for which the state architect determines that service water heating from site solar energy or recovered energy is economically or physically infeasible.
A6.207.4 Natural gas central furnaces, cooking equipment and pool and spa heaters: Pilot lights prohibited.
Any natural gas system or equipment listed below may be installed only if it does not have a continuously burning pilot light:
Fan-type central furnaces.
Household cooking appliances. Exception: Household cooking appliances without an electrical supply voltage connection and in which each pilot consumes less than 150 Btu/hr.
Pool heaters.
Spa heaters.
A6.207.5 Controls for space-conditioning systems. Space- conditioning systems shall be installed with controls that comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections A6.207.5.1 through A6.207.5.5.
A6.207.5.1 Thermostatic controls for each zone. The supply of heating and cooling energy to each space-conditioning zone or dwelling unit shall be controlled by an individual thermostatic control that responds to temperature within the zone and that meets the applicable requirements of Section A6.207.5.2.
§ 1.8.7.2.1 High relevance — show source text
1.8.7.2.1 Approval of alternates. The consideration and approval of alternates by a local building department shall comply with the following procedures and limitations: 1. The approval shall be granted on a case-by-case basis. 2. Evidence shall be submitted to substantiate claims that the proposed alternate, in performance, safety and protection of life and health, conforms to, or is at least equivalent to, the standards contained in this code and other rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. 3. The local building department may require tests performed by an approved testing agency at the expense of the owner or owner’s agent as proof of compliance. 4. If the proposed alternate is related to accessibility in covered multifamily dwellings or in facilities serving covered multifam- ily dwellings as defined in CBC Chapter 2, the proposed alternate must also meet the threshold set for equivalent facilitation as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code.
For additional information regarding approval of alternates by a building department pursuant to the State Housing Law, see Cali- fornia Health and Safety Code Section 17951(e) and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1.
1.8.7.3 Department of Housing and Community Development. The Department of Housing and Community Development may approve alternates for use in the erection, construction, reconstruction, movement, enlargement, conversion, alteration, repair, removal or demolition of apartments, condominiums, hotels, motels, lodging houses, dwellings, or an accessory thereto and permanent buildings in mobilehome parks and special occupancy parks. The consideration and approval of alternates shall comply with the following: 1. The department may require tests at the expense of the owner or owner’s agent to substantiate compliance with the California Building Standards Code. 2. The approved alternate shall, for its intended purpose, be at least equivalent in performance and safety to the materials, designs, tests or methods of construction prescribed by this code.
SECTION 1.8.8—APPEALS BOARD
1.8.8.1 General. Every city, county or city and county shall establish a process to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions and deter- minations made by the enforcing agency relative to the application and interpretation of this code and other regulations governing construction, use, maintenance and change of occupancy. The governing body of any city, county or city and county may establish a local appeals board and a housing appeals board to serve this purpose. Members of the appeals board(s) shall not be employees of the enforcing agency and shall be knowledgeable in the applicable building codes, regulations and ordinances as determined by the governing body of the city, county or city and county.
Where no such appeals boards or agencies have been established, the governing body of the city, county or city and county shall serve as the local appeals board or housing appeals board as specified in California Health and Safety Code Sections 17920.5 and 17920.6.
1.8.8.2 Definitions. The following terms shall for the purposes of this section have the meaning shown.
California Energy Code High relevance — show source text
2
5
10
15
20|190
182
224
277
325
374|1053
708
692
666
640
616|573
468
457
437
419
400|238
227
279
339
393
448|1379
914
896
866
838
810|750
611
596
570
549
526|326
309
381
457
526
592|1751
1146
1126
1092
1060
1028|927
754
734
702
677
651|473
443
547
646
730
808|2631
1689
1665
1626
1587
1550|1346
1098
1074
1037
1005
973| |30|0
2
5
10
15
20
30|184
175
215
265
312
360
461|1168
823
806
777
750
723
670|647
533
521
501
481
461
426|229
219
269
327
379
433
541|1542
1069
1049
1017
985
955
895|852
698
684
662
638
615
574|312
296
366
440
507
570
704|1971
1346
1324
1287
1251
1216
1147|1056
863
846
821
794
768
720|454
424
524
620
702
780
937|2996
1999
1971
1927
1884
1841
1759|1545
1308
1283
1243
1205
1166
1101| |50|0
2
5§ 5.410.2.4 High relevance — show source text
c. Functions to be tested.
d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.
5.410.2.4 Functional performance testing. [N] Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system- to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-27
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NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and include any readings and adjustments made.
5.410.2.5 Documentation and training. [N] A systems manual and systems operations training are required, including Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.
5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual. [N] Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative. The systems manual shall include the following:
Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.
Site contact information.
Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.
Major systems.
Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.
A copy of verifications required by the enforcing agency or this code.
Other resources and documentation, if applicable.
5.410.2.5.2 Systems operations training. [N] A program for training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type and/or system shall be developed and documented in the commissioning report and shall include the following:
- System/equipment overview (what it is, what it does and with what other systems and/or equipment it interfaces).
- Review and demonstration of servicing/preventive maintenance.
- Review of the information in the systems manual.
- Review of the record drawings on the system/ equipment.
5.410.2.6 Commissioning report. [N] A report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design and construction phases of the building project shall be completed and provided to the owner or representative.
5.410.3 Reserved.
5.410.4 Testing and adjusting. New buildings less than 10,000 square feet. Testing and adjusting of systems shall be required for new buildings less than 10,000 square feet or new systems to serve an addition or alteration subject to Section 303.1.
5.410.4.1 Reserved.
Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting system and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements and Sections 120.5, 120.6, 130.4 and 140.9(b)3 for additional testing requirements of specific systems.
5.410.4.2 Systems. Develop a written plan of procedures for testing and adjusting systems. Systems to be included for testing and adjusting shall include, as applicable to the project:
Renewable energy systems.
Landscape irrigation systems.
Water reuse systems.
California Energy Code Medium relevance — show source text
The PS customer’s facilities must isolate any fault or abnormality that could adversely affect the PG&E electric system, or the electric systems of other entities connected to the PG&E electric system. PG&E assumes no liability for damage to the PS customer−owned facilities resulting from a lack of adequate coordination between the PS customer’s protective device(s) and PG&E’s protective devices, or negligence due to the PS customer’s failure to maintain protective and/or isolation equipment. PG&E recommends that the PS customer acquire the services of a qualified and licensed electrical engineer to review its plans. The PS customer must, at its expense, install, operate, and maintain system protection facilities in accordance with all applicable regulatory rules and requirements, and in accordance with this document.
- Data the PS Customer Provides to PG&E
A. The PS customer must provide the information necessary for PG&E to determine the interconnection requirements before PG&E approves the specific PS installation. This information includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) Single−Line diagrams.
(2) Meter and Relay diagrams.
(3) Three−Line diagrams of required protective device.
(4) Control diagrams including direct current (dc) tripping circuit.
(5) Proposed relay specifications and settings.
(6) Relay manufacturer, model, style, type, ranges, settings, and a copy of the relay instruction manual.
(7) Projected electrical demand (i.e., kilowatt [kW]), including the following information:
(a) Power factor
(b) Load factor
Rev. #00: 3/25/2022 094676 Page 3 of 16
OH: Services UG: Services Primary Electric Service Requirements Greenbook
(c) Large motor sizes
(d) Motor starting currents
(e) Customer’s transformer size
(f) Estimated breakdown of the electric energy use (i.e., kilowatt hours [kwh]) by month
(8) Full−size phase and ground coordination curves showing full coordination with PG&E’s system.
(9) A registered electrical engineer must prepare and stamp the fault–study results.
(10) Maintenance program documentation for PG&E−required switches, interrupting devices, and protective equipment.
(11) Completed PS-1 Form with main breaker(s) and relay data.
(12) Main Protective Relay Current Transformer(s) (CT) data;
(a) Manufacturer
(b) Model Number
(c) CT Ratio
(d) CT Class (Minimum Class C100 Required)
(e) CT Burden (Value must be provided in Ohms
B. PG&E strongly recommends that the PS customer, or their representative, provide the above information before ordering equipment and finalizing the design.
C. Also, before energizing the new PS facility, the PS customer must also provide a copy of the on−site test reports for the switches, devices, and relays at least 30 working days before energizing the service. This allows sufficient time for review, modification, and final PG&E approval. Qualified personnel must prepare these on−site test reports. Refer to Section 9, “Equipment Test Requirements,” on Page 6 and Section 10, “Pre−Energizing Test” on Page 8 for further details.
- Data that PG&E Provides to the Applicant
PG&E provides the following engineering data to the PS customer:
A. System fault−duty at the property line.
B. Settings for PG&E source−side protective devices and the required clearance time to comply with PG&E protection standards.
§ 6.1507 Medium relevance — show source text
LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|A6.207.1.2 Controls for heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters. Heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall have controls:
A6.207.1.2.1 That prevent supplementary heater operation when the heating load can be met by the heat pump alone; and
§ 100.1 Medium relevance — show source text
36 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS
FIGURE 100.1-A CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ZONES
Climate Zones for Residential and Nonresidential Occupancies
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 37
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
38 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
2 ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
SECTION 110.0—SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT—GENERAL
Sections 110.1 through 110.12 specify requirements for manufacturing, construction and installation of certain systems, equipment, appliances and building components that are installed in buildings within the scope of Section 100.0(a).
Note: The requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.12 apply to newly constructed buildings. Sections 141.0 and 150.2 specify which requirements of Sections 110.1 through 110.12 also apply to additions and alterations to existing buildings.
(a) General Requirements. Systems, equipment, appliances and building components shall only be installed in a building within the scope of Section 100.0(a) regulated by Part 6 only if:
- The manufacturer has certified that the system, equipment, appliances or building component complies with the applicable manufacturing provisions of Sections 110.1 through 110.12; and
- The system, equipment, appliance or building component complies with all applicable installation provisions of Sections 110.1 through 110.12.
(b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.
- Appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations shall only be installed if they have been certified to the Energy Commission by the manufacturer, pursuant to the provisions of Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1606; or
- Systems, equipment, appliances and building components that are required by Part 6 or the Reference Appendices to be certified to the Energy Commission, which are not appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, shall only be installed if they are certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that: A. All the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable requirements of Part 6; and B. The equipment, product, or device was tested using the test procedure specified in Part 6 if applicable
- The certification status of any system, equipment, appliance or building component shall be confirmed only by reference to: A. A directory published or approved by the Commission; or B. A copy of the application for certification from the manufacturer and the letter of acceptance from the Commission staff; or C. Written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission-approved directory that a device has been certified; or D. A Commission-approved label on the device.
Note: Part 6 does not require a builder, designer, owner, operator, or enforcing agency to test any certified device to determine its compliance with minimum specifications or efficiencies adopted by the Commission.
Frequently asked questions
When should I first look in the Energy Commission database?
Always first. § 110.1(b) makes the Energy Commission certified appliance database (or an approved federal/trade directory) the primary verification source; § 110.1(c) is the fallback only if those sources do not provide the needed data .
If I modified an appliance onsite, can I still rely on the manufacturer’s label?
Not automatically. If the appliance has been site‑modified in a way that affects performance, § 110.1(c)(3) requires demonstrating conformance either by defaulting to the Part 6 mandatory levels or by using a Commission‑approved procedure under Section 10‑109 .
What if a field test protocol exists but was developed by a trade group, not the Commission?
If the Energy Commission has not approved that field verification and diagnostic test protocol for the appliance, you cannot rely on it as the governing method under § 110.1(c)(2); use the default or seek a Commission‑approved procedure .
Does the code force me to perform on‑site testing for all uncertified appliances?
No. The code allows either defaulting to the mandatory efficiency levels or following a Commission‑approved procedure (Section 10‑109) when directory data or approved protocols are lacking — on‑site testing is only one possible method if approved by the Commission § 110.1(c) .
Where do I find what the “mandatory efficiency levels” actually are?
The mandatory efficiency levels are specified in Part 6 tables and text for each appliance category. § 110.1(c) directs you to use those Part 6 mandatory values when the fallback is required .
More in California Energy Code
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- Mandatory measures, appliance efficiency and certification requirements
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- Reference appendices, test procedures, product certification and labeling requirements
- Scope, applicability, definitions and administrative requirements
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