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What are Title 24 Requirements for Lighting?

Title 24, recognized as the California Building Standards Code, sets the foundation for superior energy management in present-day structures. The code provides an authoritative guideline for both commercial and residential constructions, inclusive of new builds and remodels, with the primary goal of curbing energy usage, enhancing the comfort of inhabitants, and promoting a more sustainable future. If you're in the process of a new construction, renovation, or retrofit project involving lighting in California, it's essential to adhere to Title 24 of the California Energy Code. This code outlines specific guidelines designed to enhance the energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability of business operations. This article explains all the crucial lighting control mandates prescribed by Title 24, thereby enabling you to proceed with your project with utmost confidence.

Every three years, California revamps its energy code. For construction projects that submitted permit applications on or after January 1, 2023, adherence to the 2022 Energy Code is mandatory. Conversely, permits requested before this date would necessitate compliance with the 2019 Building Efficiency Standards.

The 2023 Energy Code encourages the use of efficient electric heat pumps, mandates electric-ready requirements for new homes, enhances solar photovoltaic and battery storage standards, fortifies ventilation standards, and more.

Title 24, recognized as the California Building Standards Code, sets the foundation for superior energy management in present-day structures.

Even for those residing outside of California, staying current with Title 24 is of utmost importance. Recently, legislatures from other regions have begun implementing similar codes in their jurisdictions, with particular emphasis on lighting.

Given that Title 24 and analogous codes can dramatically shape lighting and lighting controls, we have immersed ourselves in the nuances of the code to better comprehend its implications and assist clients in successfully navigating their projects.

 

Understanding Manual Space Controls

Under Title 24, separate manual controls for Luminaires must be provided in each area that's bounded by walls or floor-to-ceiling partitions. These controls must be conveniently reachable and situated where occupants can visibly monitor the controlled lighting. It is mandatory to individually control different types of lighting, such as general, floor, wall, window, display, ornamental, and special effects.

However, certain areas are exempt from these manual area controls. These include: 

  • multi-stall public restrooms
  • parking zones
  • inaccessible stairways and corridors
  • malls, auditoriums
  • retail sales spaces
  • wholesale showrooms
  • commercial and industrial storage and workspaces
  • convention centers
  • secure areas within healthcare facilities.

Control Type

Code Provision

Recommended Products

Space Type

Office ≤ 250 sq. ft.

Office > 250 sq. ft.

Restroom

Stairwell

Corridor

Storage Room < 1000 sq. ft. 

Classroom

Conference/Meeting/Multi-Purpose Room

Manual ON/Partial ON

130.1(c)

Controller + Motion Sensor

Controller + Switch

 X X X X X X X X

Area/Local Controls

130.1(b)

Switch

 X X X X X X X X



Automatic Shutoff: Power Saving through Sensing

Automatic Light Switch Through Sensor | Stouch LightingTitle 24 mandates an automatic control apparatus that curbs or switches off the lighting when a space is empty or not in use. An automatic shut-off control could be a time clock, an occupancy sensor, or any other device capable of automating the lighting system.

Time switch lighting controls facilitate scheduling of the lighting system, where the ON and OFF states are determined by the time of day. For example, it can be set to automatically activate lighting before people arrive for work and deactivate it after they leave.

Light Level Control: The Power of Dimming

Multilevel lighting controls give occupants the liberty to use all, some, or none of the lights in a space. Predominantly used to control dimmable light sources, they can also be used to manage groups of non-dimmable lights to create different light levels within an area.

To ensure both energy conservation and a comfortable environment, businesses must utilize controls that can adjust their lighting systems as follows:

  • Standard lighting elements such as line-voltage sockets, low-voltage incandescent systems, and LED luminaires should offer a continuous dimming range from 10% to 100%.
  • For fixtures typically employed in downlighting—like GU-24 sockets rated for fluorescent lighting over 20 watts and pin-based compact fluorescent lighting over 20 watts—the dimming capabilities should range continuously from 20% to 100% power.
  • Certain fixtures, including track lighting and pin-based compact fluorescent lights with a rating under 20 watts, must provide at least one adjustable level between 30% and 70%.
  • Commonly used in recessed and surface mount lighting, fixtures like linear and U-bent fluorescent lighting should offer adjustable steps in the following ranges: 20% to 40%, 50% to 70%, 75% to 100%, and full 100% power.
  • High-intensity discharge (HID) lighting fixtures over 20 watts and induction lighting over 25 watts, typically seen in high-bay, low-bay, and outdoor lighting situations, must include at least one step of adjustment between 50% and 70%.

By adhering to these guidelines, businesses can effectively manage their lighting systems, optimizing both energy use and ambient comfort.

 

Harnessing Natural Light: Daylighting and Controls

Title 24 encourages the use of daylighting controls which adjust the power consumption of a specific area in response to the intensity of incoming daylight. This is achieved through strategic placement of windows and other openings, allowing more natural light during the daytime.

Control Type

Code Provision

Recommended Products

Space Type

Office ≤ 250 sq. ft.

Office > 250 sq. ft.

Restroom

Stairwell

Corridor

Storage Room < 1000 sq. ft. 

Classroom

Conference/Meeting/Multi-Purpose Room

Daylight Responsive Control

130.1(d)

Controller + Light Sensor

 X X X X X X X X

 

Additional Control: Demand Response and Receptacle Controls

Title 24 includes additional controls like demand response control and receptacle controls. Demand response controls temporarily reduce lighting power in response to the electricity cost or signals from an electric utility. As for receptacle controls, in all buildings, uncontrolled and controlled 120V receptacles must be provided in applicable areas and meet specific requirements.

Control Type

Code Provision

Recommended Products

Space Type

Office ≤ 250 sq. ft.

Office > 250 sq. ft.

Restroom

Stairwell

Corridor

Storage Room < 1000 sq. ft. 

Classroom

Conference/Meeting/Multi-Purpose Room

Demand Responsive Controls

110.12

Controller + Web App + Gateway

 X X X X X X X X

 

The Long-Term Benefits: Energy and Cost Savings

Title 24 is not just about conserving energy but also promoting occupant comfort, health, and wellness. Adopting the Title 24 code compliance leads to more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly residential and commercial buildings. Plus, with compliance, you may be eligible for rebates and savings on your monthly bill.

As an experienced lighting solutions provider, Stouch Lighting is committed to helping you light up your world in the most efficient and sustainable way possible. Our team of experts can guide you through the journey of compliance, ensuring that you meet all the requirements of Title 24 without any hassles.

Adopting the Title 24 code compliance leads to more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly residential and commercial buildings

Whether you're looking to retrofit your school, office, or embark on a new construction project, we're here to help. Let us illuminate your way to compliance and energy efficiency, making your journey as smooth as possible.

So why wait? Together, let's take the next step towards a brighter, more sustainable future. Connect with us at Stouch Lighting today and let us help you meet your lighting needs while staying compliant with Title 24.