We have received many questions from our lighting design clients regarding California Title 24 issues for both new construction and remoldeling projects. So, we thought it might be helpful to discuss these issues and the regulations.

In order to reduce energy consumption, California has inacted a new energy code policy (Title 24) that significantly impacts lighting in new and remodeled homes. Beginning October 2005, all new and remodeled homes must incorporate energy efficient lighting and controls. Depending on the room in the house, these lighting controls might include the following devices:

Dimmers

Occupancy Sensors
Must be certified Title 24 compliant
Must be manual-on/automatic-off (can also be turned off manually)
Must turn off automatically in 30 minutes Cannot be locked in a permanent "on" state

High efficacy lights - fluorescent, compact fluorescent (CFL) or high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps Fluorescent, CFL, and HID lights must not have a medium screw base socket Lamps rated 13 watts or greater must have an electronic ballast Of these, Lutron dimmers are the most cost effective, consumer friendly solution.

So which room needs what lighting controls you might be asking yourself? Well, this is what the rules state and here are some suggestions:

Living room, bedrooms, family room, and hallways
Dimmers or Occupancy sensor or Fluorescent lighting

Kitchen
Fluorescent lighting - at least 50% of installed wattage must be from fluorescent, CFL or HID lights (13 watts or greater require an electronic ballast)

Incandescent lighting - up to 50% of installed wattage may be incandescent lighting if switched separately

Dimmers - pair with incandescent lighting as an upgrade from a standard switch

Bathrooms, utility rooms, garages, laundry rooms
Fluorescent lighting or occupancy sensors

Exterior security lights (attached to building)
Fluorescent lighting or Incandescent lighting combined with photocell control and/or a motion sensor

If you have any questions regarding California Title 24 regulations, feel free to contact the professional lighting constants at Illuminations Lighting Design toll free at 800-863-1184 for lighting issues. Of course, Title 24 is a complex subject and you can learn more by contacting the California Energy Commission online at http://www.energy.ca.gov/