CEC Listens to Industry, Government, and Utility Feedback about Implementing the Energy Code

By Media Office staff

The California Energy Commission (CEC) is working with industry, government, and utilities to improve compliance with the state’s Energy Code so that Californians receive the full benefit of its energy efficiency measures.

A group of attendees discusses issues they’ve experienced with code implementation, while CEC staff takes notes for its Energy Code Compliance study. 

The Building Energy Efficiency Standards, also known as the California Energy Code, governs the energy efficiency requirements of buildings. The CEC develops and approves new codes every three years to incorporate innovations in technology and to reflect cost and emissions savings for the life of the building. The code development process considers input from the public, builders, and other stakeholders. Once the updates are adopted, the CEC also listens to stakeholders about how the code is working in the real world.  

In November 2025, the CEC partnered with the City of San Diego to host the San Diego Energy Code Forum, bringing together CEC staff, Southern California jurisdictions, and the public for targeted training and interactive discussions to improve compliance. The CEC plans to continue engaging with authorities having jurisdiction and expand to other regions of California in 2026—with participating jurisdictions eligible for up to $3.6 million to support compliance work and have access to tailored workforce development programs.

The information gained from discussions will help shape priorities for a CEC-led Energy Code Compliance Study, funded through an award from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) under the Inflation Reduction Act.

Participants in technical sessions and guided conversations shared systemic barriers and practical opportunities in applying the Energy Code in real-life building construction and renovation. Many of the challenges included tight budgets, limited staff, and growing implementation complexity.

CEC Commissioner Andrew McAllister, who provided opening remarks during the November forum, emphasized the importance of hearing directly from those implementing and enforcing the Energy Code because effective policy depends on a clear understanding of on-the-ground conditions.

The City of San Diego event received support from the California Energy Alliance, Acceptance Test Technician Certification Providers (ATTCP), and Energy Code Ace team members. Attendees learned about major updates to the 2025 Energy Code, the ATTCP Program, and practical steps for acceptance testing in nonresidential buildings. 

The digital training package is available here.

Searching for Improvements for More Efficiency Benefits 

After the training sessions, participants discussed with CEC staff about ways to simplify documentation, improve verification and certification systems, and clarify roles and responsibilities across the compliance process.

A recurring theme was the need for solutions that recognize local capacity limits and reduce administrative burden on authorities having jurisdiction. Participants said these improvements could help jurisdictions enforce the Energy Code more efficiently.

About the Energy Code Study 

The Energy Code Compliance Study is part of the CEC’s strategy to improve compliance statewide through ongoing collaboration with local governments and energy professionals. This study will help capture diverse experiences, refine compliance processes, support affordability, and improve overall implementation.

As part of the work, the CEC will continue to host regular advisory board meetings, subject matter expert sessions, and regional forums to exchange insights and report on progress.

Events like the San Diego forum give local governments, building officials, plan checkers, and inspectors the opportunity to shape smarter energy policy.

For more information, or to ask questions, please fill out this form.