CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Where are energy program terms (like 'energy budget' or 'geothermal') defined?

In CALGreen, look first to Chapter 2 **§ 202** for the definitions of energy program terms like **ENERGY BUDGET** and **GEOTHERMAL**; appendices refer back to § 202 and terms tagged **[CEC]** follow California Energy Commission (Title 24, Part 6) rules.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The California Green Building Standards Code places the primary definitions for energy program terms in § 202 (Definitions) of Chapter 2. In particular, ENERGY BUDGET and GEOTHERMAL are defined in Chapter 2 (see § 202), and several energy-related appendices explicitly point back to those Chapter 2 definitions (for example, § A4.202 and § A5.202). For energy terms that are tagged [CEC] the CALGreen definition refers to or mirrors the California Energy Commission (Title 24, Part 6) definitions and compliance references such as Section 10‑109 of the Energy Code.

The single most important rule: consult § 202 — Chapter 2 is the authoritative place in CALGreen for defined energy program terms; appendices that list terms point you back there.

Key takeaway (first mentions)

  • § 202 — Chapter 2 Definitions (primary source for CALGreen terms).
  • ENERGY BUDGET — defined in Chapter 2 and shown as a CEC‑referenced term.
  • GEOTHERMAL — defined in Chapter 2 and marked [CEC].

Requirements in detail

Where to look (quick map)

Decision dimension What to check Code Reference
Where is the authoritative CALGreen definition for energy terms? Chapter 2, § 202 Definitions (look up the exact term there). § 202 —
If a term shows a bracket like [CEC] That indicates the term is defined/used consistent with the California Energy Commission (Title 24, Part 6) and may reference Energy Code sections (e.g., Section 10‑109). § 202; see ENERGY BUDGET and GEOTHERMAL entries —
Voluntary appendices that use energy terms Appendix definition sections point to Chapter 2 (e.g., § A4.202 and § A5.202 state “the following terms are defined in Chapter 2”). § A4.202 — ; § A5.202 —
Where the code explains how to calculate an Energy Budget CALGreen’s definition points to CEC‑approved compliance software and the ACM Reference Manual (Title 24, Part 6, Section 10‑109). § 202 ENERGY BUDGET —

What the definitions actually tell you (short paraphrase)

  • ENERGY BUDGET (Chapter 2 / § 202): the maximum energy a proposed building (or portion) may be designed to consume; the definition explicitly states it is calculated using CEC‑approved compliance software and that for newly constructed buildings it is expressed in Long‑Term System Cost (LSC) and Source Energy; for additions/alterations it is expressed in LSC.

  • GEOTHERMAL (Chapter 2 / § 202): defined as renewable energy generated by deep‑earth water or steam and is identified with the [CEC] tag, meaning the Energy Commission’s definitions and rules govern its use for energy program compliance references.

Decision rules you will use in practice

  • If a CALGreen appendix or section uses an energy term but does not redefine it locally, go to § 202. Appendix definitions often explicitly state: “the following terms are defined in Chapter 2.”
  • If the term has a [CEC] tag (seen next to ENERGY BUDGET and GEOTHERMAL), treat the term consistent with the California Energy Code and its referenced sections and software (e.g., Title 24 Part 6, Section 10‑109).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Some voluntary appendices (A4, A5) list energy terms but do not redefine them; instead they point to Chapter 2 for the authoritative wording (see § A4.202 and § A5.202). Do not rely on the appendix entry alone — check § 202.
  • Terms tagged [CEC] in CALGreen indicate that the California Energy Commission controls the technical content and the calculation method (for example, the Energy Budget calculation relies on CEC‑approved compliance software and the ACM Reference Manual). When you need computation rules or software details, consult the Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6 Section 10‑109) in addition to CALGreen § 202.
  • If a local jurisdiction adopts voluntary energy provisions (Appendix A4/A5) as mandatory locally, the appendices require coordination with Energy Commission procedures (the appendices explicitly reference that local adoption must follow CEC filing/approval processes). See the appendix prefaces.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: "Assuming CALGreen contains the computation steps for an Energy Budget." Correction: CALGreen’s § 202 defines what an Energy Budget is and points to CEC methods; the actual calculation procedures and certified software are in the Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) and ACM manuals, not in CALGreen.
  • Mistake: "Using an appendix definition in place of Chapter 2." Correction: Appendix definition sections explicitly state the terms are defined in Chapter 2 — always check § 202.
  • Mistake: "Treating terms without the [CEC] tag as CEC‑controlled." Correction: only terms marked [CEC] (or otherwise cross‑referenced) should be treated as following Energy Commission technical rules. Check the tag in § 202.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: You are the plan checker for a new five‑unit multi‑family building. The project team submits a Certificate of Compliance showing:

  • Proposed design LSC = 1,150 (long‑term system cost units used by CEC software), and
  • Proposed design Source Energy = 21,000 MBtu/year.

What you do and why:

  1. Confirm that the project team labeled and reported the values under the term ENERGY BUDGET as defined in § 202 (CALGreen defines ENERGY BUDGET and states it is to be calculated with CEC‑approved compliance software). If the submittal simply provides numbers without referencing the CEC software/ACM used, request that they identify the CEC‑certified software and ACM compliance method used — because CALGreen’s definition requires CEC‑approved calculation per Section 10‑109.
  2. Verify whether the energy budget the applicant reports is for a newly constructed building (expressed in LSC and Source Energy) or for an addition/alteration (LSC only). Because this is newly constructed, both LSC and Source Energy are relevant per § 202.
  3. If the project relies on a renewable source labeled GEOTHERMAL for part of its energy supply, check that geothermal is understood per § 202 (renewable energy from deep‑earth water or steam) and that any compliance crediting follows the Energy Commission rules referenced by the code (since GEOTHERMAL carries the [CEC] association).

This example shows the practical flow: use § 202 to interpret terms, then follow the Energy Code/CEC references for calculation and software verification.

Related provisions (CALGreen)

  • § 202 — Chapter 2 Definitions (primary location for ENERGY BUDGET, GEOTHERMAL, LSC, etc.).
  • § A4.202 — Appendix A4 definitions point to Chapter 2 (low‑rise residential voluntary measures).
  • § A4.203 — Performance approach for Appendix A4 (references Energy Budget concepts; see Appendix text).
  • § A5.202 — Appendix A5 definitions point to Chapter 2 (nonresidential voluntary measures).
  • § A5.203 — Performance approach for Appendix A5 (uses terms defined in Chapter 2; see Appendix text).

If you need the exact wording of any defined term from § 202 (for example, the full text of ENERGY BUDGET or GEOTHERMAL), I can pull and show the precise code language or point you to the specific CALGreen page where § 202 appears. The CALGreen text also makes clear which terms are cross‑referenced to the California Energy Commission (CEC) and the Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6).

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CALGreen § 100.2 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 100.2—CALCULATION OF ENERGY BUDGETS

    Energy budgets are adopted by the Commission to establish the maximum energy consumption that a proposed building, or portion of a building, can be designed to consume. A building complies with the performance standards compliance approach if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by the Alternative Calculation Methods Reference Manual. The energy budget for newly constructed single-family, multifamily, and nonresidential buildings are expressed in terms of Long-Term System Cost (LSC) and Source Energy. The energy budget for additions and alterations for all building types are expressed in terms of LSC.

    Long-term System Cost (LSC) is calculated by multiplying for each hour of the year the site energy use (electricity kWh, natural gas therms, or fuel oil or LPG gallons) for each energy type by the applicable CEC-published LSC hourly factors. LSC hourly factors vary for each hour of the year and by energy type (electricity, natural gas, or propane), by Climate Zone and by building type (residential, nonresidential). LSC hourly factors are summarized in Reference Joint Appendix JA3. LSC hourly factors for propane are used for all energy obtained from depletable sources other than electricity and natural gas.

    Source Energy is calculated by multiplying for each hour of the year the site energy use (electricity kWh, natural gas therms, or fuel oil or LPG gallons) by Btu factors for fossil fuel consumed either directly at the building site or caused to be consumed to meet the electrical demand of the building considering the long-term marginal hourly resources of Commission-projected electric system resource procurement.

    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 .

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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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    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.

  • CALGreen § 170.0 High relevance — show source text

    Exception to Section 170.0 (a)3: If a single development falls in more than one climate zone, all buildings in the subdivision or tract may be designed to meet the performance or prescriptive standards for the climate zone that contains 50 percent or more of the dwelling units.

    NOTE: The Commission periodically updates, publishes and makes available to interested persons and local enforcement agencies precise descriptions of the climate zones, as specified in Reference Joint Appendix JA2—Weather/Climate Data.

    NOTE: The requirements of Sections 170.1(a) through 170.2(e) apply to newly constructed buildings and Sections 180.1 and 180.2 specify changes to the requirements of Sections 170.1(a) through 170.2(e) that apply to additions or alterations.

    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 170.1—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A building complies with the performance approach if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109 and 10-116 and the Alternative Calculation Method Reference Manual.

    (a) Energy budget. The energy budget is expressed in terms of long-term system cost (LSC) and source energy:

    1. Long-term system cost (LSC). The LSC energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building and has two components, the Efficiency LSC and the Total LSC.

    A. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, lighting and the self-utilization credit. B. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and demand flexibility. 2. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design, except with a consumer gas or propane water heater, to the proposed design building.

    Exception to Section 170.1(a): A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, and/or community shared BESS, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system or BESS LSC energy required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Nonresidential ACM Reference Manual.

    (b) Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards.

    1. Certificate of Compliance and Application for a Building Permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 that demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its source energy and LSC energy consumption do not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone.
    2. Field verification of individual dwelling unit systems.
  • CALGreen § 10-109 High relevance — show source text

    EMITTANCE, THERMAL is the ratio of the radiant heat flux emitted by a sample to that emitted by a blackbody radiator at the same temperature.

    ENCLOSED SPACE is space that is substantially surrounded by solid surfaces, including walls, ceilings or roofs, doors, fenestration areas, and floors or ground.

    ENERGY BUDGET is the maximum energy consumption that a proposed building, or portion of a building, can be designed to consume, calculated using Commission-approved compliance software as specified by Section 10-109 of the Energy Code and the Alternative Calculation Method Reference Manual. The energy budget for newly constructed buildings are expressed in terms of the Long-Term System Cost (LSC) and Source Energy. The energy budget for additions and alterations is expressed in terms of LSC.

    ENERGY COMMISSION (CEC) is the California State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission.

    ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATIO (EER) is the ratio of net cooling capacity (in Btu/hr) to total rate of electrical energy input (in watts), of a cooling system under designated operating conditions, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATIO 2 (EER2) is the ratio of the average rate of space cooling capacity (Btu/h) delivered to the average rate of electrical energy consumed by the air conditioner or heat pump as determined in accordance to the test method in 10CFR430 Subpart B Appendix M1. EER is expressed in Btu/Wh.

    ENERGY MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEM (EMCS) is an automated control system that regulates the energy consumption of a building by controlling the operation of energy-consuming systems and is capable of monitoring loads and adjusting operations in order to optimize energy usage and respond to demand response signals.

    ENERGY OBTAINED FROM DEPLETABLE SOURCES is electricity purchased from a public utility, or any energy obtained from coal, oil, natural gas or liquefied petroleum gases.

    ENERGY OBTAINED FROM NONDEPLETABLE SOURCES is energy that is not energy obtained from depletable sources.

    ENFORCEMENT AGENCY is the city, county or state agency responsible for issuing a building permit.

    ENTHALPY RECOVERY RATIO (ERR) is a ratio of the change in enthalpy of the outdoor air supply to the difference in enthalpy between the entering supply airflow and the entering exhaust airflow, with no adjustment to account for that portion of the psychometric change in the leaving supply airflow that is the result of leakage of entering exhaust airflow rather than exchange of heat or moisture between the airstreams.

    ENTIRE BUILDING is the ensemble of all enclosed space in a building, including the space for which a permit is sought, plus all existing conditioned and unconditioned space within the structure.

    ENVELOPE (See “Building envelope.”)

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR is the Executive Director of the Energy Commission.

    EXFILTRATION is uncontrolled outward air leakage from inside a building, including leakage through cracks and interstices, around windows and doors, and through any other exterior partition or duct penetration.

    EXTERIOR FLOOR/SOFFIT is a horizontal exterior partition, or a horizontal demising partition, under conditioned space. For low-rise residential occupancies, exterior floors also include those on grade.

    EXTERIOR PARTITION is an opaque, translucent or transparent solid barrier that separates conditioned space from ambient air or space. For low-rise residential occupancies, exterior partitions also include barriers that separate conditioned space from unconditioned space, or the ground.

  • CALGreen § 130.5 High relevance — show source text

    ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS. The following definitions are intended to apply to Section 130.5 only:

    ELECTRICAL METERING is a device or system for measuring the electrical power and energy supplied to a customer or premise(s).

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    EQUIPMENT. A general term, including devices, luminaires, apparatus, machinery, and the like used as a part of, or in connection with, an electrical installation.

    LOW VOLTAGE DRY-TYPE DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER is a distribution transformer that has an input voltage of 600 volts or less, that is air-cooled, and that does not use oil as a coolant.

    PLUG LOAD is the energy consumed by any appliances or electronic device that is plugged into a receptacle or receptacle outlet. Plug loads are not related to general lighting, heating, ventilation, cooling, and water heating, domestic and service water system, renewable power, information technology equipment, computer room electronic equipment, and electric vehicle charging.

    SERVICE is the conductors and equipment for delivering electric energy from the serving utility to the wiring system of the premise served.

    SERVICE EQUIPMENT is the necessary equipment, usually consisting of a circuit breaker(s) or switch(es) and fuse(s) and their accessories, connected to the load end of service conductors to a building or other structure, or an otherwise designated area, and intended to constitute the main control and cutoff of the supply.

    ELECTRONICALLY-COMMUTATED MOTOR is a brushless DC motor with a permanent magnet rotor that is surrounded by stationary motor windings, and an electronic controller that varies rotor speed and direction by sequentially supplying DC current to the windings.

    EMITTANCE, THERMAL is the ratio of the radiant heat flux emitted by a sample to that emitted by a blackbody radiator at the same temperature.

    ENCLOSED SPACE is space that is substantially surrounded by solid surfaces, including walls, ceilings or roofs, doors, fenestration areas, and floors or ground.

    ENERGY BUDGET is the maximum energy consumption that a proposed building, or portion of a building, can be designed to consume, calculated using Commission-approved compliance software as specified by Section 10-109 of the Energy Code and the Alternative Calculation Method Reference Manual. The energy budget for newly constructed buildings are expressed in terms of the Long-Term System Cost (LSC) and Source Energy. The energy budget for additions and alterations is expressed in terms of LSC.

    ENERGY COMMISSION (CEC) is the California State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission.

    ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATIO (EER) is the ratio of net cooling capacity (in Btu/hr) to total rate of electrical energy input (in watts), of a cooling system under designated operating conditions, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATIO 2 (EER2) is the ratio of the average rate of space cooling capacity (Btu/h) delivered to the average rate of electrical energy consumed by the air conditioner or heat pump as determined in accordance to the test method in 10CFR430 Subpart B Appendix M1. EER is expressed in Btu/Wh.

  • CALGreen § 140.0 High relevance — show source text

    Note to Section 140.0(c): The Commission periodically updates, publishes and makes available to interested persons and local enforcement agencies precise descriptions of the climate zones, which is available by zip code boundaries depicted in the Reference Joint Appendices along with a list of the communities in each zone.

    Note to Section 140.0: The requirements of Sections 140.1 through 140.10 apply to newly constructed buildings. Section 141.0 specifies which requirements of Sections 140.1 through 140.10 also apply to additions or alterations to existing buildings.

    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 140.1—PERFORMANCE APPROACH: ENERGY BUDGETS

    A building complies with the performance standards if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116.

    (a) Energy budget. The energy budget is expressed in terms of long-term system cost (LSC) and source energy.

    1. Long-term system cost (LSC). The LSC energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building and has two components, the Efficiency LSC and the Total LSC.

    A. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, and lighting. B. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS) and demand flexibility. 2. Source energy . The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building.

    Exception to Section 140.1(a). A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, and/or community shared BESS, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system or BESS LSC energy required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Nonresidential ACM Reference Manual.

    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 140.2—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

    To comply using the prescriptive approach a building shall be designed with and shall have constructed and installed systems and components meeting the applicable requirements of Sections 140.3 through 140.10.

  • CALGreen § 10-109 High relevance — show source text

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT (EVSE). [BSC-CG, DSA-SS and HCD] The conductors, including the ungrounded, grounded and equipment grounding conductors and the electric vehicle connectors, attachment plugs, personnel protection system, and all other fittings, devices, power outlets or apparatus installed specifically for the purpose of transferring energy between the premises wiring and the electric vehicle.

    EMBODIED ENERGY. The energy used for raw material extraction, transportation, manufacturing, assembly, installation and disposal during the life of a product, including the potential energy stored within the product.

    ENERGY BUDGET. [CEC] The maximum energy consumption that a proposed building, or portion of a building, can be designed to consume, calculated using CEC-approved compliance software as specified in Section 10-109 of the Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) and the Alternative Calculation Method (ACM) Reference Manual. The Energy Budget for the newly constructed buildings is expressed in terms of the Long-term System Cost (LSC) and Source Energy. The energy budget for additions and alterations is expressed in terms of LSC.

    ENERGY COMMISSION. The California State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission. ENERGY EQUIVALENT (NOISE) LEVEL ( L eq ). The level of a steady noise which would have the same energy as the fluctuating noise level integrated over the time period of interest.

    ENFORCING AGENCY. The designated department or agency as specified by statute or regulation.

    EUTROPHICATION. The excessive growth of aquatic plants, especially algae, producing bacteria which consume nearly all of the oxygen required to sustain fauna and other flora.

    EVAPOTRANSPIRATION ADJUSTMENT FACTOR (ETAF). [DSA-SS] An adjustment factor when applied to reference evapotranspiration that adjusts for plant factors and irrigation efficiency, which are two major influences on the amount of water that needs to be applied to the landscape.

    EXFILTRATION. The uncontrolled outward air leakage from inside a building, including leakage through cracks and interstices, around windows and doors, and through any other exterior partition or duct penetration.

    EXPRESSWAY. An arterial highway for through traffic which may have partial control of access, but which may or may not be divided or have grade separations at intersections.

    FILM. [BSC-CG] A material adhered to the first surface of glass (surface 1), perforated or printed with patterns as visual markers.

    FLOOR AREA RATIO. Gross square footage of all structures on a site divided by gross square footage of the site.

    FOOTPRINT AREA. [DSA-SS] The total area of the furthest exterior wall of the structure projected to natural grade, not including exterior areas such as stairs, covered walkways, patios and decks.

    FREEWAY. A divided arterial highway with full control of access and with grade separations at intersections.

    FRENCH DRAIN. A trench, hole or other depressed area loosely filled with rock, gravel, fragments of brick or similar pervious material used to collect or channel drainage or runoff water.

    GEOTHERMAL. [CEC] Renewable energy generated by deep-earth water or steam.

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    DEFINITIONS

  • CALGreen § 10-109 High relevance — show source text

    DISPOSAL. The management of solid waste through land- filling or transformation at permitted solid waste facilities.

    DIVERSION. Activities which reduce or eliminate the amount of solid waste from solid waste disposal for purposes of this code.

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV). [BSC-CG, HCD] An automotive-type vehicle for on-road use, such as passenger automobiles, buses, trucks, vans, neighborhood electric vehicles, electric motorcycles and the like, primarily powered by an electric motor that draws current from a rechargeable storage battery, fuel cell, photovoltaic array or other source of electric current. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) are considered electric vehicles. For purposes of the California Electrical Code, off-road, self-propelled electric vehicles, such as industrial trucks, hoists, lifts, transports, golf carts, airline ground support equipment, tractors, boats and the like, are not included.

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CAPABLE SPACE. [BSC-CG, DSA-SS and HCD] A vehicle space with electrical panel space and load capacity to support a branch circuit and necessary raceways, both underground and/or surface mounted, to support EV charging.

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGER. [BSC-CG, HCD] Off-board charging equipment used to charge an electric vehicle.

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SPACE (EV SPACE). [HCD] A space intended for future installation of EV charging equipment and charging of electric vehicles.

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EVCS). [BSC-CG, DSA-SS, HCD] One or more electric vehicle charging spaces served by EVSE or receptacle(s).

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) READY SPACE. [HCD] A vehicle space which is provided with a branch circuit; any necessary raceways, both underground and/or surface mounted; to accommodate EV charging, terminating in a receptacle or a charger.

    ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT (EVSE). [BSC-CG, DSA-SS and HCD] The conductors, including the ungrounded, grounded and equipment grounding conductors and the electric vehicle connectors, attachment plugs, personnel protection system, and all other fittings, devices, power outlets or apparatus installed specifically for the purpose of transferring energy between the premises wiring and the electric vehicle.

    EMBODIED ENERGY. The energy used for raw material extraction, transportation, manufacturing, assembly, installation and disposal during the life of a product, including the potential energy stored within the product.

    ENERGY BUDGET. [CEC] The maximum energy consumption that a proposed building, or portion of a building, can be designed to consume, calculated using CEC-approved compliance software as specified in Section 10-109 of the Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) and the Alternative Calculation Method (ACM) Reference Manual. The Energy Budget for the newly constructed buildings is expressed in terms of the Long-term System Cost (LSC) and Source Energy. The energy budget for additions and alterations is expressed in terms of LSC.

    ENERGY COMMISSION. The California State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission. ENERGY EQUIVALENT (NOISE) LEVEL ( L eq ). The level of a steady noise which would have the same energy as the fluctuating noise level integrated over the time period of interest.

    ENFORCING AGENCY. The designated department or agency as specified by statute or regulation.

  • CALGreen § 150.1 High relevance — show source text

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    8 SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS—PERFORMANCE

    AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES

    SECTION 150.1—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

    (a) Basic requirements. Single-family residential buildings shall meet all of the following:

    1. The applicable requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.10.
    2. The applicable requirements of Section 150.0 (mandatory features).
    3. Either the performance standards or the prescriptive standards set forth in this section for the climate zone in which the building is located. Climate zones are shown in Reference Joint Appendix JA2–Weather/Climate Data. Exception to Section 150.1(a)3: If a single contiguous subdivision or tract falls in more than one climate zone, all buildings in the subdivision or tract may be designed to meet the performance or prescriptive standards for the climate zone that contains 50 percent or more of the dwelling units. Note: The Commission periodically updates, publishes, and makes available to interested persons and local enforcement agencies precise descriptions of the climate zones, as specified in Reference Joint Appendix JA2–Weather/Climate Data.

    Note: The requirements of Sections 150.0(a) through 150.0(r) apply to newly constructed buildings and Sections 150.2(a) and 150.2(b) specifies changes to the requirements of Sections 150.1(a) through 150.1(c) that apply to additions or alterations.

    (b) Performance approach. A building complies with the performance approach if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116.

    1. Energy budget. The energy budget is expressed in terms of source energy and long-term system cost (LSC). A. Long-term system cost (LSC). The LSC energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building and has two components, the Efficiency LSC and the Total LSC.

    i. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, and the self-utilization credit.

    ii. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), lighting, demand flexibility, and other plug loads. B. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building. The source energy is the total annual source energy. Exception to Section 150.1(b)1. A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, or community shared BESS, which provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits, or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system and demand flexibility Energy Design Rating required to comply with the Standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Residential ACM Reference Manual.

  • CALGreen § 1.11.0. High relevance — show source text
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1-AC AC ** SS** ** SS/CC** 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
    Adopt Entire Chapter X X X X X
    Adopt Entire Chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    Chapter/Section

    This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: † The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 345

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    346 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    »

    »»

    »

    »

    »

    »

    Part I – General.

    1701.0 General.

    1701.1 Applicability. Part I of this chapter shall apply to geothermal energy systems such as, but not limited to, building systems coupled with a ground-heat exchanger, submerged heat exchanger using water-based fluid as a heat transfer medium, or groundwater (well). The regulations of this chapter shall govern the construction, location and installation of geothermal energy systems.

    Part I through Part V of this chapter shall apply to geothermal energy systems and district ambient temperature loop systems that circulate ground-ambient-temperature water to be used in end-use buildings as a thermal source or sink via water source heat pump or reversing chiller. The systems shall operate to permit independent and bi-directional heating and cooling for comfort and water heating such as, but not limited to, building systems coupled with ground district ambient temperature loops, a ground-heat exchanger, submerged heat exchanger using water-based fluid as a heat transfer medium, or groundwater (well), or such local resources to the advantage of the district. Central district auxiliary components shall add or reject heat to benefit district ability to reduce both power consumption and demand combined with energy sharing. The regulations of this chapter shall govern the construction, location and installation of ground temperature thermal distribution districts from 100 percent geothermal energy system to multiple hybrid district systems.

  • CALGreen § 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.201—GENERAL

    A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards. 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 findings 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 modifications 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/building-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A5.202—DEFINITIONS

    A5.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    GEOTHERMAL.

    LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).

    PROCESS.

    RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.

    SOLAR ACCESS.

    SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.

    SECTION A5.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A5.203.1 Energy efficiency. Nonresidential, high-rise residential and hotel/motel buildings that include lighting and/or mechanical systems shall comply with Sections A5.203.1.1 and A5.203.1.2. Newly constructed buildings and additions are included in the scope of these sections. Buildings permitted without lighting or mechanical systems shall comply with Section A5.203.1.1 but are not required to comply with Section A5.203.1.2.

    A5.203.1.1 Tier 1 and Tier 2 prerequisites. To comply with Tier 1, ONE of the following efficiency measures is required for all applicable components of the building project. To comply with Tier 2, TWO of the following efficiency measures are required.

    A5.203.1.1.1 Outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting requirements are described below.

    A5.203.1.1.1.1 Newly installed outdoor lighting power shall be no greater than 90 percent of the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power, and general hardscape lighting within the scope of Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7(b)1 shall have a color temperature no higher than 3000K. The Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power calculation is specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7, Requirements for Outdoor Lighting.

    Exception to Section A5.203.1.1.1.1:

  • CALGreen § 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below    		 X
    Chapter/Section
    Appendix A5.2 X

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-11

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

    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.201—GENERAL

    A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards. 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 findings 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 modifications 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/building-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A5.202—DEFINITIONS

    A5.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    GEOTHERMAL.

  • CALGreen § 1-5 Medium relevance — show source text

    102 Construction Documents

    and Installation Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5

    103 Building Standards Commission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5 104 Department of Housing and Community Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6 105 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6

    106 Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

    201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

    202 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

    CHAPTER 3 GREEN BUILDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

    301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

    302 Mixed Occupancy Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 303 Phased Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 304 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 305 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    306 Voluntary Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    CHAPTER 4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . . . . . 4-3

    4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3 4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7 4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9 4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 4-11 4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

    CHAPTER 5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . 5-3

Frequently asked questions

Where in CALGreen do I always look first for definitions of energy terms?

Start at § 202 (Chapter 2 Definitions)—appendices that list energy terms typically point back to Chapter 2.

If a term is marked [CEC], does CALGreen still define it?

Yes — CALGreen lists the term (often in § 202) but the tag [CEC] signals that the California Energy Commission’s rules and the Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) govern the technical calculation or implementation.

Do appendices A4 and A5 provide separate definitions for energy terms?

No — § A4.202 and § A5.202 explicitly state those terms are defined in Chapter 2; therefore use § 202 for authoritative definitions.

If I need the calculation method for an Energy Budget, where do I look?

CALGreen’s definition of ENERGY BUDGET in § 202 directs you to use CEC‑approved compliance software and the ACM Reference Manual (see Title 24, Part 6, Section 10‑109).

Can a local jurisdiction change the definitions in the appendices?

Local jurisdictions may adopt voluntary appendix provisions as mandatory only after following the Energy Commission filing/approval procedures referenced in the appendices; definitions themselves are centralized in Chapter 2.

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