Updates to Energy Codes for 2022 – Impact on Lighting Explained

The start of a new year brings more than a wave of well-intended resolutions, it’s also when new regulations, laws, and codes take effect.
Even though energy regulations are updated every three years, local governments don’t always enact them at the same time. The two codes most commonly adopted are ASHRAE’s Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings (ASHRAE 90.1) and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
The codes’ ultimate goal is for you to become more energy efficient. The new regulations can affect every stage of your lighting project from design to the products used. It’s one of the reasons why you want to work with a professional.
Since 2022 energy codes can vary by state, we’ll explain what you need to know.

We are going to look at the states with updated energy codes and explain how they can affect your current or future lighting project. Here’s a list of the states we’ll cover.

• California
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Maine
• Montana
• Pennsylvania
• Virginia
• Washington

2022 Energy Code Changes by State

Below, we will walk you thought the 2022 energy code changes by state. While some of the cades are very similar, each state has their own enactments.

California

Energy codes are governed by the California Energy Commission (CEC). The Golden State tends to follow the newest energy codes from ASHRAE. These codes typically go a little further than the regulations released by the IECC.
The CEC accepted 2022 energy codes in late 2021 which establishes new standards for existing structures, along with new constructions.
Energy code updates for California businesses include,

• Establishes solar PV (solar cells) and battery regulations for specific businesses.
• Design systems to maximize the use of onsite solar energy when the grid is forced to switch over to fossil-fuel-powered plants.
• Commercial greenhouses (licensed cannabis growers) have new energy-efficient usage standards.
• Increased efficiency standards to boost grid stability.

Other codes enforced in California include Title 20 and Title 24. The codes build off of each other, requiring businesses to employ more energy-efficient lighting products.

For organizations with new construction or existing buildings needing to update their energy sustainability, our Action Services Group specialist are standing by to assist you. To schedule a call that fits your needs, click the button below.

Georgia

Georgia is requiring all commercial building plans to be compliant with the 2022 state changes to the International Building Code.
The Peach State follows regulations in the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code 2020 combined with the state’s 2022 amendments. These changes include new standards for recessed lighting. The fixtures must be installed in drywall on all retrofits or new lighting projects.

Idaho

The Potato State is in its second year of implementing energy-efficient lighting codes. Idaho follows guidance from 2018 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2016 with an additional change.
Lighting control standards both indoors and outside are expanding in 2022.

Maine

Maine adopted updated energy codes in 2022 using guidance from 2015 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2013. The primary changes affecting businesses in the state are the following,

• Lighting control requirements in specific locations
• Adopting LED technology to aid with lighting power density (LPD) limits

Montana

Like other states, Montana follows 2018 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2016 with specific requirements for some businesses.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is following updated guidance from the International Energy Conservation Code, from 2015 to 2018. These changes take effect in February 2022.
A few of the main changes are,

• Reducing lighting power densities
• More controls for interior and exterior lighting
• Improved standards for commissioning and inspecting lighting control system

The state is allowing a six month grace period for some projects but planning ahead can ensure you are meeting all of the 2022 energy codes.

Virginia

Virginia follows 2018 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2016 as of 2021 with a few additional state standards.
The biggest changes that may affect your business are,

• Using IC-rated recessed lighting fixtures and properly sealing them in drywall.
• Industry and use specific requirements for lighting controls
• Changes to exterior lighting control standards

Washington

Even though the state enacted new energy code regulations in 2021, Washington is constantly changing and updating the standards.
Along with following the guidance outline in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010, businesses have state requirements to meet. Some of these include,

• Lighting control requirements in spaces over 5,000 sq. ft.
• Lower thresholds for lighting efficacy requirements. The new threshold is 25 watts, instead of 50 watts. Transitioning to LED fixtures will help you meet the new standards.

Your state may not have updated its lighting requirements, but it’s still something to think about. Saving energy typically increases your bottom line. There are three primary ways you can improve your lighting to 2022 energy code standards.

1. Invest in lighting controls. Lighting controls reduce energy usage and are a requirement for commercial buildings in several states.
2. Transition to LED. LED products minimize energy usage, making it easier for you to meet 2022 energy codes.
3. Contact a lighting specialist. A lighting specialist has the answers to your questions from product recommendations, to planning, and implantation.

Action Services Group has over 30 years experience in national lighting services and project management. Contact us today and see how we can help you meet the 2022 energy codes. Call 610-558-9773, emailing [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.