Title 24 · California Energy Code

When is a product required to be certified to the Energy Commission?

If Part 6 or Title 20 requires certification, you cannot install the product unless the manufacturer provides the required Energy Commission certification (Title 20 appliance listing or a manufacturer’s sworn declaration) and you can confirm certification through the Commission database, an approved directory, application+acceptance letter, written confirmation, or a Commission‑approved label.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

A manufactured system, equipment, appliance, or building component may be installed in a building regulated by Part 6 only if the manufacturer has certified that the item complies with applicable manufacturing requirements and the installation meets Part 6 rules — § 110.0.

For appliances that fall under the Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20, § 1601 et seq.), installation is allowed only when the appliance is certified to the Energy Commission (per the Title 20 certification program) and meets the referenced Title 20 compliance provision — § 110.1.

The single most important rule: If Part 6 or Title 20 requires certification for a manufactured product or appliance, you must be able to show an accepted Energy Commission certification or the manufacturer’s declaration before installing it.

Requirements in detail

Who must certify (top-level categories)

  • Appliances within the scope of Title 20 § 1601 — must be certified to the Energy Commission through the Title 20 appliance certification process (Title 20 § 1606 / § 1608 referenced by Part 6). § 110.1(a).
  • Other systems, equipment, appliances or building components that Part 6 or the Reference Appendices require be certified (but are not Title 20 § 1601 appliances) — must be certified by the manufacturer via a written declaration executed under penalty of perjury that the information is complete/accurate and that testing used the applicable Part 6 test procedure, if applicable. § 110.0(b)2.

What form of certification is acceptable

  • For Title 20 appliances: the Energy Commission’s Title 20 certification (the Energy Commission appliance database) is the primary verification route. § 110.1(b)(1).
  • For other Part 6‑required certified items: manufacturer declaration under penalty of perjury (see above). § 110.0(b)2.

How an enforcing party must confirm certification

Certification status may be confirmed only by one of the following four methods:

  • A directory published or approved by the Commission (for example, the Energy Commission appliance database), or
  • A copy of the manufacturer’s application for certification plus the Commission staff’s letter of acceptance, or
  • Written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission‑approved directory that the device has been certified, or
  • A Commission‑approved label on the device. § 110.0(b)3.

When conformance may be shown another way (limited exceptions)

When the verification data described above are unavailable, Part 6 allows alternative demonstration procedures (for appliances) — e.g., defaulting to the mandatory efficiency levels or following Commission‑approved procedures under Title 24, Part 1, Section 10‑109 — in the specific cases listed in § 110.1(c) (data not available, field verification protocols not yet approved, site modification affecting performance, or DOE waiver lacking an efficiency determination). § 110.1(c).

Decision table — when certification is required and what proof is accepted

Decision dimension Values / threshold What that means Code Reference
Product category Appliance within Title 20 § 1601 Must be certified under Title 20 (Energy Commission database) before installation § 110.1(a–b)
Product category Other Part 6‑required items Manufacturer must provide a signed declaration under penalty of perjury (and testing per Part 6 test method, if applicable) § 110.0(b)2
Verification method Energy Commission directory / approved directory Accepted verification for appliance compliance § 110.1(b)(1)
Verification method Manufacturer application + acceptance letter, written confirmation, or Commission label Alternate accepted proofs for certification status § 110.0(b)3
When alternatives allowed Data not available, field test protocol not approved, site‑modification, DOE waiver May demonstrate conformity by default levels or approved procedures under Title 24 Part 1 §10‑109 § 110.1(c)

Exceptions & special cases

  • If test or verification data identified in § 110.1(b) are not available, Part 6 permits alternative paths (default to mandatory minimums or approved procedures under Title 24 Part 1 § 10‑109). These are limited, case‑by‑case provisions — § 110.1(c).
  • Appliances that are Title 20 regulated have their own Title 20 procedures for certification and compliance (see Title 20 references cited in § 110.1). Part 6 defers to those Title 20 procedures for appliances. § 110.1(a–b).
  • Part 6 does not require field re‑testing of a device that is already certified — the code specifically notes that builders/designers/enforcers are not required to test certified devices to confirm compliance with minimum specifications or efficiencies adopted by the Commission (see note to § 110.0).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any manufacturer label suffices — only a Commission‑approved label or the other four approved proofs in § 110.0(b)3 are acceptable. § 110.0(b)3.
  • Treating all products the same — Title 20 appliances follow the Title 20 certification program; other Part 6 required items may rely on a manufacturer’s sworn declaration. Mixing these paths is a frequent error. § 110.1(a) and § 110.0(b)2.
  • Relying on non‑approved directories or third‑party catalogs that aren’t explicitly approved by the Commission (only Commission or Commission‑approved directories count unless otherwise allowed by the code). § 110.1(b) and § 110.0(b)3.
  • Thinking certification eliminates enforcement — certification is required for installation eligibility, but local enforcing agencies still verify documentation using the approved methods. § 110.0(b)3.

Worked example — applying the rule step‑by‑step

Scenario: You are specifying a new gas range for a residential project.

  1. Determine product category: a household cooking appliance of the type regulated under Title 20 § 1601 → this is a Title 20 appliance (an Appliance). § 110.1(a).
  2. Check the Energy Commission appliance database (primary verification): is the model listed as certified? If yes, you may install it provided it meets the Title 20 compliance requirement (Title 20 § 1608(a) as referenced by § 110.1(a)). § 110.1(b)(1).
  3. If the model is not in the Energy Commission database, you cannot rely on an ordinary manufacturer brochure. Either: (a) obtain the manufacturer’s Title 20 application + Commission acceptance letter; (b) confirm via a Commission‑approved directory; or (c) rely on an approved label — per § 110.0(b)3. § 110.0(b)3.
  4. If no verification data exist and the project is in the narrow circumstances listed in § 110.1(c) (for example, Title 20 data not available and Commission has no field test protocol for this appliance), then follow the alternate procedures under Title 24 Part 1 § 10‑109 or default to the mandatory efficiency levels. § 110.1(c).

Related provisions

  • § 110.0 — Systems and equipment general certification requirements and verification methods.
  • § 110.1 — Mandatory requirements for appliances (Title 20 appliances and verification approaches).
  • § 100.1 — Definitions, including “CERTIFIED TO THE ENERGY COMMISSION” (definition text describing Title 20 and manufacturer declaration usage).
  • § 110.2 — Certification rules specifically for space‑conditioning equipment (manufacturers must certify these items where stated).
  • § 110.6 — Fenestration product certification requirements (example of a Part 6 subsection that requires manufacturer certification for non–field‑fabricated products).

Code references

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

  • § 25218.5 High relevance — show source text

    (b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. 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 , 2 5402.8, 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:

    1. 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
    2. An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
    3. 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:

    1. 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
    2. 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
  • § 100.1 High relevance — show source text

    36 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    FIGURE 100.1-A CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ZONES

    Climate Zones for Residential and Nonresidential Occupancies

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    38 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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    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:

    1. 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
    2. 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.

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. 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.

  • § 13.3 High relevance — show source text

    CERTIFIED TO THE ENERGY COMMISSION means, when used in association with appliances, certified under Section 1606 of Title 20 of the California Code of Regulations; and otherwise means certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that all the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable provisions of Part 6; and if applicable that the equipment, product or device was tested under the applicable test method specified in Part 6.

    CERTIFYING ORGANIZATION is an independent organization recognized by the Commission to certify manufactured devices for performance values in accordance with procedures adopted by the Commission.

    CIE 13.3 is the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) document titled “Method of Measuring and Specifying Colour Rendering Properties of Light Sources,” 1995 (CIE 13.3-1995).

    CIE 15 is the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) document titled “Technical Report: Colorimetry,” 2018 (CIE 15:2018).

    CIRCULATING FAN means a fan that is not a ceiling fan, but that is used to move air within a space that has no provision for connection to ducting or separation of the fan inlet from its outlet, and designed to be used for the general circulation of air.

    CLIMATE ZONES are the 16 geographic areas of California for which the commission has established typical weather data, prescriptive packages and energy budgets. Climate zones are defined by ZIP code and listed in Reference Joint Appendix JA2. FIGURE 100.1-A is an approximate map of the 16 climate zones.

    CLOSED-CIRCUIT COOLING TOWER is a cooling tower that utilizes indirect contact between a heated fluid, typically water or glycol, and the cooling atmosphere to transfer the source heat load through sensible heat, latent heat and mass transfer indirectly to the air, essentially combining a heat exchanger and cooling tower into an integrated and relatively compact device.

    CODES, CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE is the California Historical Building Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 8 and Part 2 (Chapter 34).

    CODES, CBC is the 2025 California Building Code.

    CODES, CEC is the 2025 California Electrical Code.

    CODES, CFC is the 2025 California Fire Code.

    CODES, CMC is the 2025 California Mechanical Code.

    CODES, CPC is the 2025 California Plumbing Code.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), COOLING is the ratio of the rate of net heat removal to the rate of total energy input, calculated under designated operating conditions and expressed in consistent units, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), HEATING is the ratio of the rate of net heat output to the rate of total energy input, calculated under designated operating conditions and expressed in consistent units, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), HEAT PUMP is the ratio of the rate of useful heat output delivered by the complete heat pump unit (exclusive of supplementary heating) to the corresponding rate of energy input, in consistent units and as determined using the applicable test method in Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

  • § 430.2. High relevance — show source text

    CARBON DIOXIDE ENRICHMENT is injection of additional carbon dioxide into controlled environment horticulture spaces for the purpose of stimulating plant growth.

    CASCADE REFRIGERATION SYSTEM is a type of refrigeration system that uses a low-stage refrigeration system where the heat rejected from condensing the low-stage refrigerant is absorbed using a heat-exchanger by a separate high-stage refrigeration system, and the ultimate heat rejection to ambient air is accomplished by the high-stage refrigeration system.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 9

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    CATHEDRAL CEILING is an exterior partition with a slope less than 60 degrees from horizontal that is created by applying the ceiling directly to the underside of the roof framing members and applying structural roof sheathing directly to the top of the roof framing members/rafters. It may be flat or sloped and vented or unvented.

    CEILING FAN means a nonportable device that is suspended from a ceiling or overhead structure for circulating air via the rotation of fan blades as defined in 10 CFR 430.2.

    CENTRAL FAN VENTILATION COOLING SYSTEM (CFVCS) is a ducting arrangement including outside air ducts, motorized dampers and an automatic control system that allows a residential space-conditioning system central fan and ducts to distribute outside air throughout a residential dwelling unit, intending to reduce or eliminate the need for mechanical cooling.

    CERTIFIED TO THE ENERGY COMMISSION means, when used in association with appliances, certified under Section 1606 of Title 20 of the California Code of Regulations; and otherwise means certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that all the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable provisions of Part 6; and if applicable that the equipment, product or device was tested under the applicable test method specified in Part 6.

    CERTIFYING ORGANIZATION is an independent organization recognized by the Commission to certify manufactured devices for performance values in accordance with procedures adopted by the Commission.

    CIE 13.3 is the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) document titled “Method of Measuring and Specifying Colour Rendering Properties of Light Sources,” 1995 (CIE 13.3-1995).

    CIE 15 is the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) document titled “Technical Report: Colorimetry,” 2018 (CIE 15:2018).

    CIRCULATING FAN means a fan that is not a ceiling fan, but that is used to move air within a space that has no provision for connection to ducting or separation of the fan inlet from its outlet, and designed to be used for the general circulation of air.

    CLIMATE ZONES are the 16 geographic areas of California for which the commission has established typical weather data, prescriptive packages and energy budgets. Climate zones are defined by ZIP code and listed in Reference Joint Appendix JA2. FIGURE 100.1-A is an approximate map of the 16 climate zones.

  • § 204.4.4 High relevance — show source text

    A6.204.4.4 Functional performance testing. 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. 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. This shall be reviewed and verified by the CxA.

    A6.204.4.5 Postconstruction documentation and training. A systems manual and systems operations training are required.

    A6.204.4.5.1 Systems manual. Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner and facilities operator. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, the systems manual shall include the following:

    1. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.

    2. Site contact information.

    3. Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.

    4. Major systems.

    5. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.

    6. Other resources and documentation.

    A6.204.4.5.2 Systems operations training. The CxA shall oversee the training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type and/or system. The training shall include, as a minimum, the following:

    1. System/equipment overview (what it is, what it does and what other systems and/or equipment it interfaces with).
    2. Review of the information in the systems manual.
    3. Review of the record drawings on the system/ equipment.

    A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report. The CxA shall create a complete report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building project and provided to the owner.

    A6.204.6 Building orientation and shading. Locate orient and shade the building as required in Section A6.106.9.

    SECTION A6.205 [OSHPD 1 & 4]—BUILDING ENVELOPE

    A6.205.1 Fenestration products and exterior doors.

    A6.205.1.1 Certification of fenestration products and exterior doors other than field-fabricated. Any fenestration product and exterior door, other than field-fabricated fenestration products and field-fabricated exterior doors, may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the California Energy Commission or if an independent certifying organization approved by the Commission has certified that the product complies with all of the applicable requirements of this subsection.

    A6.205.1.1.1 Air leakage. Manufactured fenestration products and exterior doors shall have air infiltration rates not exceeding 0.3 cfm/ft [2] of window area, 0.3 cfm/ft [2] of door area for residential doors, 0.3 cfm/ft [2] of door area for nonresidential single doors

    APPENDIX A6.1-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

  • § 204.4.6 High relevance — show source text

    A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report. The CxA shall create a complete report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building project and provided to the owner.

    A6.204.6 Building orientation and shading. Locate orient and shade the building as required in Section A6.106.9.

    SECTION A6.205 [OSHPD 1 & 4]—BUILDING ENVELOPE

    A6.205.1 Fenestration products and exterior doors.

    A6.205.1.1 Certification of fenestration products and exterior doors other than field-fabricated. Any fenestration product and exterior door, other than field-fabricated fenestration products and field-fabricated exterior doors, may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the California Energy Commission or if an independent certifying organization approved by the Commission has certified that the product complies with all of the applicable requirements of this subsection.

    A6.205.1.1.1 Air leakage. Manufactured fenestration products and exterior doors shall have air infiltration rates not exceeding 0.3 cfm/ft [2] of window area, 0.3 cfm/ft [2] of door area for residential doors, 0.3 cfm/ft [2] of door area for nonresidential single doors

    APPENDIX A6.1-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    (swinging and sliding) and 1.0 cfm/ft [2] for nonresidential double doors (swinging), when tested according to NFRC-400 or ASTM E283 at a pressure differential of 75 pascals (or 1.57 pounds/ft [2] ), incorporated herein by reference.

    A6.205.1.1.2 U -factor. A fenestration product’s U -factor shall be rated in accordance with NFRC 100 or the applicable default U -factor set forth in Table A.5.205.1-A.

    Exception: If the fenestration product is a skylight or is site-built fenestration in a building covered by the nonresidential standards with less than 10,000 square feet of site-built fenestration, the default U- factor may be calculated as set forth in Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6 of the California Energy Commission 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings.

    TABLE A.5.205.1-A—DEFAULT FENESTRATION PRODUCT U-FACTORS Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    FRAME PRODUCT TYPE SINGLE PANE
    U-FACTOR    		 DOUBLE PANE1
    U-FACTOR    		 GLASS BLOCK2
    U-FACTOR
    Metal Operable 1.28 0.79 0.87
    Metal Fixed 1.19 0.71 0.72
    Metal Greenhouse/garden window 2.26 1.40 N.A.
    Metal Doors 1.25 0.77 N.
  • § 140.4 High relevance — show source text

    ** HVAC systems with DDC controllers shall use controller logic originating from a programming library based on sequences of operation from ASHRAE Guideline 36 in accordance with the following:

    1. Requirement applies to all controllers that are capable of being programmed in the field; and
    2. Requirement applies to the entirety or all applicable portions of equipment control for configurations included in the programming library; and
    3. The programming library shall be certified to the Energy Commission as meeting the requirements of Reference Joint Appendix JA18. Exception to Section 140.4(r)3: Nonprogrammable (configurable-only) controllers for zone terminal units shall follow applicable ASHRAE Guideline 36 zone sequences referenced in Reference Joint Appendix JA18, Table 18.3-1, but are not subject to certification requirements.

    Exception 1 to Section 140.4(r): Logic from the certified programming library modified to suit application-specific operations that are not included in ASHRAE Guideline 36 sequences.

    Exception 2 to Section 140.4(r): Systems serving healthcare facilities.

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    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE

    COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    (s) Mechanical heat recovery.

    1. Simultaneous mechanical heat recovery. A. Simultaneous mechanical heat recovery is required for newly constructed buildings that meet either i or ii: i. CHL + 0.1 × CLL ≥ 200 tons and SWHCAP + HCAP ≥ 2200 kBtuh; or

    ii. CCAP ≥ 300 tons and SWHCAP + 0.1 × HCAP ≥ 700 kBtuh

    where:

    CCAP = Design capacity of all mechanical cooling systems. CHL = Coincident peak cooling load of all spaces with a design equipment power density > 5 watts/ft [2] and a minimum outdoor airflow requirement < 0.5 cfm/ft [2] (i.e., high load spaces).

    CLL = CCAP - CHL. If the design includes capacity for future cooling systems, then assume 20 percent of future systems serve high load spaces.

    SWHCAP = Design capacity of all service water heating (SWH) systems, excluding systems expected to operate less than 5 hours per week, such as instant-hot water systems for emergency eyewash stations.

    HCAP = Design capacity of all space-heating systems. B. The heat recovery system shall include a heat recovery chiller, or other means, capable of transferring the lesser of the following from spaces in cooling to spaces in heating and/or to the SWH system: i. 25 percent of the peak heat rejection of the cooling system. ii. 25 percent of (SWHCAP + HCAP) Exception 1 to Section 140.4(s)1: Laboratory buildings with exhaust air heat recovery systems meeting Section 140.9(c)6. Exception 2 to Section 140.4(s)1: Buildings in Climate Zone 15 with SWHCAP < 600 kBtuh. 2. Heat recovery for service water heating. If the building is required to have simultaneous mechanical heat recovery by Section 140.4(s)1, and SWHCAP ≥ 500 kBtuh, then the heat recovery system shall also heat or preheat the service hot water. The heat recovery system shall have the capacity to transfer the smaller of: A.

  • § 110.1 Medium 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:

    1. 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
    2. An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
    3. 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:

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. 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

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    1. 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 , 2 5402.8, 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:

    1. 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
    2. 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
  • § 150.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 150.2 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. C. Multifamily buildings. Section 180.0 applies to new construction in existing multifamily buildings. New construction in existing buildings includes additions, alterations and repairs. Section 180.0 specifies requirements that uniquely apply to additions, alterations or repairs to existing buildings, and specifies which requirements in other sections also apply. For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 180.0 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. 4. Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Section 110.8(d) applies to buildings in which insulation is being installed in existing attics, or on existing water heaters or existing space conditioning ducts. 5. Outdoor lighting. Sections 110.9, 130.0, 130.2, 130.4, 140.7, and 150.0 apply to newly constructed outdoor lighting systems, and Section 141.0 applies to outdoor lighting that is either added or altered. 6. Signs. Sections 130.0, 130.3 and 140.8 apply to newly constructed signs located either indoors or outdoors, and Section 141.0 applies to sign alterations located either indoors or outdoors.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 3

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

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    (f) Mixed occupancy. When a building is designed and constructed for more than one type of occupancy (residential and nonresidential), the space for each occupancy shall meet the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.

    Exception 1 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 80 percent of the conditioned floor area of the building, the entire building envelope, HVAC and water heating may be designed to comply with the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy, provided that the applicable lighting requirements in Sections 140.6 through 140.8, 150.0(k), or 160.5 and 170.2(e) are met for each occupancy and space, and mandatory measures in Sections 110.0 through 130.5, 150.0, and 160.0 through 160.9 are met for each occupancy and space.

    Exception 2 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 90 percent of the combined conditioned plus unconditioned floor area of the building, the entire building indoor lighting may be designed to comply with only the lighting provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.

    (g) Administrative requirements. Administrative requirements relating to permit requirements, enforcement by the Commission, locally adopted energy standards, interpretations, claims of exemption, approved calculation methods, rights of appeal, and certification and labeling requirements of fenestration products and roofing products are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Sections 10-101 to 10-114.

    (h) Certification requirements for manufactured equipment, products and devices. Part 6 limits the installation of manufactured equipment, products and devices to those that have been certified as specified by Sections 110.0 and 110.1. Requirements for manufactured equipment, products, and devices, when not specified in Title 24 Part 6, are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Sections 1601–1609.

  • § 10-113. Medium relevance — show source text

    Solar reflectance may also be certified by other supervisory entities approved by the Energy Commission pursuant to Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-113.

    TABLE A4.106.5.1—VALUES OF SOILING RESISTANCE (ß) BY PRODUCT TYPE Col2 Col3
    PRODUCT TYPE CCRC PRODUCT CATEGORY ß
    Field-applied coating Field-applied coating 0.65
    Other Not a field-applied coating 0.70

    A4.106.5.2 Thermal emittance. Roofing materials shall have a CRRC initial or aged thermal emittance equal to or greater than those specified in Tables A4.106.5.1(1) and A4.106.5.1(3) for Tier 1 and Tables A4.106.5.1(2) and A4.106.5.1(4) for Tier 2.

    Thermal emittance may also be certified by other supervisory entities approved by the Energy Commission pursuant to Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code.

    A4.106.5.3 Solar reflectance index alternative. Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) equal to or greater than the values specified in Tables A4.106.5.1(1) and A4.106.5.1(3) for Tier 1 and Tables A4.106.5.1(2) and A4.106.5.1(4) for Tier 2 may be used as an alternative to compliance with the 3-year aged solar reflectance values and thermal emittance.

    SRI values used to comply with this section shall be calculated using the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) Calculation Worksheet (SRI-WS) developed by the California Energy Commission or in compliance with ASTM E1980-01 as specified in the 2022 California Energy Code. Solar reflectance values used in the SRI-WS shall be based on the aged reflectance value of the roofing product or the equation in Section A4.106.5.1 if the CRRC certified aged solar reflectance are not available. Certified thermal emittance used in the SRI-WS may be either the initial value or the aged value listed by the CRRC.

    Solar reflectance and thermal emittance may also be certified by other supervisory entities approved by the Commission pursuant to Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code.

    Note: The Solar Reflectance Index Calculation Worksheet (SRI-WS) is available by contacting the Energy Standards Hotline at 1-800-772-3300, website at www.energy.ca.gov or by email at Title24@energy.ca.gov.

    TABLE A4.106.5.1(1)—TIER 1 – LOW-RISE RESIDENTIAL Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    ROOF SLOPE CLIMATE ZONE MINIMUM 3-YEAR AGED SOLAR
    REFLECTANCE    		 THERMAL EMITTANCE SRI
    ≤ 2:12 13 & 15 0.63 0.75 75
    > 2:12 10 – 15 0.20 0.75 16
  • § 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION A4.201—GENERAL

    A4.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards in the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required approval of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modification along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement. (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/build- ing-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A4.202—DEFINITIONS

    A4.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).

    RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.

    SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.

    SECTION A4.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH FOR NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS

    A4.203.1 Energy efficiency. Newly constructed low-rise residential buildings shall comply with Sections A4.203.1.1 through A4.203.1.4.

    A4.203.1.1 Long-term system cost (LSC). LSC rating for the building’s Proposed Design shall be computed by Compliance Software certified by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 100.1 and 150.1(b), and shall reduce the LSC required in the Compliance Software for minimum performance-based compliance with the California Energy Code by the compliance margin specified in Table A4.203.1.1. The rating shall be included in the Certificate of Compliance documentation.

    TABLE A4.203.1.1—RECOMMENDED LSC MARGINS BY CLIMATE ZONES Col2
    CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE CLIMATE ZONE TOTAL LSC COMPLIANCE MARGIN
    1 2.70
    2 1.62
    3 1.10
    4 1.11
    5 1.01
    6 0.24
    7 0.24
    8 0.21
    9 0.20
    10 0.18
    11 1.11
    12 1.05
    13 0.96
    14 1.21
    15 0.59
    16 1.68
    Note: Community shared options complying with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115 may be used to achieve LSC targets. Note: Community shared options complying with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115 may be used to achieve LSC targets.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-9

Frequently asked questions

When does a manufacturer declaration suffice instead of Title 20 certification?

A manufacturer declaration executed under penalty of perjury suffices for systems, equipment, appliances or building components that Part 6 (or a Reference Appendix) specifically requires to be certified but which are not Title 20 § 1601 appliances — see § 110.0(b)2.

If an item is labeled “meets California code,” is that enough?

Only a Commission‑approved label or one of the approved proofs in § 110.0(b)3 is acceptable. A generic “meets California code” label without Commission approval is not an accepted verification method. § 110.0(b)3.

Can local enforcement require testing of a certified device?

No — Part 6 explicitly states that builders/designers/enforcers are not required to test a device that is already certified to determine compliance with Commission minimums or efficiencies. § 110.0 (note).

Where do I look up certified appliances?

Use the Energy Commission appliance database (the code lists the Energy Commission’s database URL as the primary directory) or an equivalent Commission‑approved/federal/approved trade association directory as allowed in § 110.1(b). § 110.1(b)(1–3).

What if I modify an appliance on the job site?

If a factory‑certified appliance is site‑modified in a way that affects performance, § 110.1(c)(3) requires demonstrating conformance using the alternate procedures because the original certification may no longer apply. § 110.1(c).

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