The code's purpose is to advance the state's energy policy, develop renewable energy sources and prepare for energy emergencies.[citation needed] A 2020 study found that the 1978 energy code successfully reduced energy consumption, and that the implementation of the policy passed a cost-benefit test.[2]
California was the first state to implement minimum energy efficiency standards in 1974. It was the first to establish an energy regulation commission – the California Energy Commission. These regulations and codes have been in effect since 1974. California has the lowest per capita energy consumption in the US.[3]
The 2019 California Energy Code became effective on January 1, 2020.[5] It focuses on such areas such as residential photovoltaic systems, thermal envelope standards and non-residential lighting requirements.
Homes built under this code are about 53% more energy efficient than those built to comply with the 2016 Energy Code.[6] This code provides a market for "smart" technologies.[7]
The 2019 Code added photovoltaic system requirements for low-rise residential buildings. Exceptions grant a reduction in size for photovoltaic systems.[8]
^Novan, Kevin; Smith, Aaron; Zhou, Tianxia (September 24, 2020). "Residential Building Codes Do Save Energy: Evidence from Hourly Smart-Meter Data". The Review of Economics and Statistics. 104 (3): 483–500. doi:10.1162/rest_a_00967. ISSN0034-6535.
