Fact: Local governments may also adopt reach codes from the voluntary energy efficiency section of the California Building Code, Title 24, Part 11 (CALGreen), or make other modifications to Part 11. The existing code includes mandatory requirements for electric vehicle (EV) chargers, readiness in newly constructed buildings, and specific additions and alterations. The code also includes voluntary Tier 1 and Tier 2 requirements that jurisdictions can adopt as reach codes. Examples include increasing the percentage of parking spaces required for EV charging or increasing the number of charging outlets.

Fact: They are not. A reach code may be considered and passed in two City Council readings within two or three months. It does not require a rigid state approval process. The California Energy Commission (CEC) reviews reach code applications only for minimum requirements at monthly business meetings. Furthermore, some reach codes don’t need any CEC approval. Local jurisdictions that pass reach codes based on health and safety concerns, not energy-related reasons, go through only the simple filing process with the Building Standards Commission. Similarly, reach codes that amend CAL Green* do not require CEC approval.

^{* Adoption of reach codes by local governments from the voluntary energy efficiency section of the California Building Code, Title 24, Part 11 (CALGreen). Read more in previous Myth/Fact: Reach codes are only amendments to Title 24, Part 6.} 

Fact: A reach code is flexible—one size does not fit all. While sample ordinance language is available to jurisdictions as a starting point, every reach code can be unique and tailored to a jurisdiction’s particular needs. For example, exemptions can be included for specific types of accessory dwelling units, existing commercial kitchens, and areas where solar access is limited. Cities and counties can tailor a reach code to match their exact needs. 

Fact: Reach Codes that modify the energy code must be submitted to the CEC, which requires proof that the reach codes are cost-effective (i.e., less expensive) for customers. To aid this process, the CEC funds the Statewide Reach Codes Program to prepare cost-effectiveness reports that identify cost-effective reach code measures for every climate zone in California. Jurisdictions can simply pick from a list of recommended measures for their climate zone and submit the cost-effectiveness report to the CEC with their ordinances.  

Fact: With proper planning, the electric grid can handle building and transportation electrification without reducing grid reliability. The California Public Utilities Commission, the California Independent System Operator, and the state’s electric utilities are continually implementing strategies to avoid outages and shutoffs, such as improved electric system planning, installing additional utility-scale renewable generation and energy storage, and grid hardening upgrades in fire-prone areas. SCE invests approximately $5 billion annually in upgrades to increase grid capacity, improve reliability, and harden the grid against extreme weather events, including wildfires. Reach codes typically focus on new construction. Per the state building code, all new residential construction is required to have rooftop solar. Starting in 2023, all new residential construction is required to have space and electrical infrastructure for future energy (usually battery) storage. Many non-residential building types require both solar and battery installations. These customer-owned resources provide an additional layer of resiliency, on top of the utility-scale enhancements already underway. 

Fact: Almost all reach codes are for new construction and do not affect existing buildings in any way. Further, a new reach code for existing buildings would not affect gas stoves; a code would require electric stoves only if the gas stove is replaced during a major retrofit that requires a building permit.

Fact: Serving the electrical needs of all-electric buildings is not a significant concern compared to mixed-fuel buildings. The electrical grid is engineered to handle the highest levels of demand, typically influenced by air conditioning usage in many regions. Research indicates that the peak demand from all-electric buildings is not significantly higher than the peak demand from mixed-fuel buildings in most cases. Some factors supporting grid capability of electrification include:

• Modern electric technologies are very efficient and often are capable of demand response, meaning they can avoid or minimize usage during on-peak hours when the stress on the grid is greatest.
• Communities with all-electric buildings tend to exhibit a more consistent demand for electricity throughout the day.
• Although all-electric buildings may use more electricity overall, their energy consumption is more evenly distributed over time, negating the need for substantial grid enhancements.

Fact: The energy code is updated every three years and yields substantial environmental benefits each time. However, there are always additional cost-effective measures that a jurisdiction can implement to gain further benefits. For instance, electrification of space heating, water heating, or both are proven to yield substantial greenhouse gas emission savings while being cost-effective and maintaining equal performance. Reach codes are worthwhile, and they are an integral part of the code update process because they help accelerate the adoption of cost-effective measures statewide and provide precedent for subsequent code cycles.