A Guide to California Title 24
What is it?
Title 24 is a section of the California Energy Commission's (CEC) energy code that includes energy efficiency updates in the HVAC and lighting parts, as well as power receptacles (commercial office spaces) of building construction. Title 24 Code went into effect as of July 1, 2014 and is updated by the CEC every three years. These standards were updated to now include electrical power distribution systems with a requirement to control 120 volt power receptacles in area of commercial building including private offices, open office areas, conference rooms and kitchens.
When is Title 24 Required?
Any building permit valued over $200,000 or with additions of 1,000 square feet or larger submitted after July 1, 2014 has to abide by these energy efficiency standards. Workstations, cubicles or benching stations with power outlets are subject to these mandates.
Controlling Power Receptacles Specifications
Controlling power receptacles is the ability to automatically turn off 120 Volt outlets that are drawing energy when not in use, such as printers or task lights, thus reducing energy consumption. It is specified that 50% of the power outlets included in the building permit need to be controlled. A controlled receptacle needs to be installed every 6 feet from an uncontrolled receptacle. Additionally, the controlled receptacle has to be connected to an occupancy sensor or timer that will shut off automatically when it is not in use. Controlled receptacles have to be easily differentiated from receptacles that are not controlled.
Meeting the Standard
There are two options in order to meet the requirements of the standard. A business owner can install the controlled 120 volt receptacles which can be connected to the same automatic shut off system already in place for general lighting control. On the other hand, you can install permanently mounted occupancy sensors that control hardwired, non‐residential power strips in each workstation. Plug-in strips with an occupant sensor cannot be used to abide with these requirements.
Exemptions
Power outlets/receptacles for refrigerators and water dispensers in office kitchens; receptacles six feet above the floor or more for clocks; receptacles for copiers, fax machines and scanners other than personal computers in copy rooms do not fall under Title 24 Code.
We at AAA Solutions hope you have learned a great deal about the California Title 24 code. For more information please visit EnergyCodes.gov. Have any questions? Feel free to contact us today!
