Title 24

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has adopted the new Title 24 guidelines, which include comprehensive changes in lighting. These new requirements are effective on October 1, 2005 and significantly reduce lighting energy usage in new homes by requiring the use of new energy efficient technologies.

Here are the details:

Kitchens:
At least 50% of the total wattage of the kitchen lighting must be from high efficacy lighting. Low efficacy lighting must be controlled separately from high efficacy lighting.

Bathrooms, utility rooms, garages and laundry rooms:
High efficacy lighting or manual-on occupancy sensors are required.

Exterior:
Lighting that is attached to the home (building) must be high efficacy or a combination photo sensor/motion sensor is required.

All other Interior spaces:
High efficacy lighting, occupancy sensors or dimmers are required.

Recessed lighting:
Must be both Type IC (insulated ceiling) and Type Airtight housings when installed in insulated ceilings.

Electronic Ballasts:
Electronic ballasts are required for all fluorescent lighting rated 13 watts or greater.