State Projects

Effective in 2005, these updated building standards include requirements for outdoor lighting, portable classrooms, residential insulation, demand control ventilation, and water heating systems, among other measures. AEC also updated the Alternative Calculation Manuals and the Compliance Manuals to reflect the changes in the energy standards.

AEC has vast experience with the California energy codes, having previously updated the nonresidential and residential building energy efficiency standards for 2001. AEC staff is now involved in 2008 Title 24 work.

AB970 Update to California Title 24 Energy Code
AEC provided complete support services to the California Energy Commission (CEC) to update the nonresidential and residential building energy efficiency standards for 2001. The work was in response to emergency legislation (Assembly Bill 970), which required the CEC to make the standard more stringent in a cost-effective manner in 120 days.

The low-rise residential standards were updated to include requirements or compliance credit for radiant barriers, cool roofs, thermal expansion valves, refrigerant charge and air flow testing, and window performance. The nonresidential standards were updated with regard to fenestration (high performance glazing is required throughout California), HVAC equipment efficiency, lighting controls, and other measures.

A complete service was provided to the CEC, including measure analysis, life-cycle analysis, drafting of proposed changes to the standard, proposed changes to the ACM manuals, updating of the energy conservation manuals, as well as support services.

Hawaii Model Energy Code Development, Impact Analysis, User's Manual and Training
AEC developed energy conservation codes and provided related consultation and training for the State of Hawaii. The envelope requirements of the code use a new approach that shifts emphasis to glazing performance rather than limiting glazing area. The lighting and HVAC sections of the code were adapted from the California energy standards and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-1989 (in draft form at the time).

In addition, AEC adapted ASHRAE Standard 90.1 to include a residential component (before ASHRAE 90.2 was developed). Subsequently, AEC revised the code and performed an economic impact analysis of the code. Finally, AEC provided training on the code to 350 architects, engineers and building officials.

New Mexico Energy Code Training
The state of New Mexico contracted with AEC to provide training for architects, engineers, contractors, and building officials on their newly adopted energy code. AEC was responsible for organizing, promoting, handling registration, and delivering a total of ten two-day sessions held through the state. AEC developed a compliance handbook, which was used in the training and produced videotapes for use by those unable to attend the live seminars.

New York Commercial Energy Code
AEC conducted a study to revise the NY State energy standards for commercial buildings. As part of this project, AEC summarized the California energy standards and identified sections that elicited consideration for New York and compared the California and ASHRAE 90.1P lighting requirements to the current state requirements.