The California Energy Commission recently mandated new energy efficiency standards starting in 2014, including a rule that all new homes have roofs equipped for solar paneling. The panels are still optional—for now.
Other highlights: Ceiling fans, hot water pipes, air conditioning units and even the sunlight exposure from windows will now be regulated. Lighting systems must be controlled by sensors, roofs must be slanted in the right direction to have full access to the sun, and sunlight must not be impeded by chimneys and skylights. This is a full employment act for building inspectors, not builders. …
The Commission says not to worry about the extra costs because the new rules will reduce energy use by 25% and save homeowners money on the houses they increasingly can’t afford to buy. “This will be great for everybody who buys a house and wants to put solar on the roof,” Commissioner Karen Douglas said. But you’ll still have to pay even if you don’t want solar on the roof.
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