![]() ![]() If you plan to install solar panels or expand the existing solar panel system on the primary residence to satisfy the energy requirements of the ADU, it may be the case that the new solar modules require an upgrade to your existing electrical service. The new PV modules must be part of the ADU’s permit application, sized per the Energy Code, and comply with other parts of the building code as applicable. If you already have solar panels on your primary dwelling, you may add new photovoltaic (PV) modules to the existing system to meet energy code requirements for the ADU. Adding solar panels onto new construction is common practice for California contractors, as installation is quick and easy when you are already in the process of building. The California Energy Commission (CEC) states that panels can be installed on the accessory dwelling unit or the primary unit. How can I satisfy the solar requirement for my ADU? In our regular revision process, we would advocate for the homeowner in situations where we believe the state law supersedes an interpretation by the city. ![]() Why just “reasonably accurate” idea of whether the project will require solar? The uncertainty is because we are still seeing inconsistent application of this solar requirement exemption, meaning each jurisdiction may interpret this differently. The final T-24 energy calculations for the project, which are performed based on the final construction documents, will be more nuanced and may reflect a slightly different kW requirement. ![]() When you receive a proposal from SnapADU, we will be sure to look up your climate zone and perform the calculation so that we can have a reasonably accurate idea of whether your project will require solar and how large a system it will require. Per the CEC’s Blueprint Issue 138, “Exception 2 to § 170.2(f) applies to each building (not individual dwelling units) if the minimum PV size specified is less than 1.8 kW, then no PV is required for that building.” So again, this may mean that any ADU under 620 sqft could be exempt, while larger ADUs up to 1125 sqft in more moderate climate zones may also be exempt. There is an equivalent multifamily PV (photovoltaic) exemption when the minimum PV system size is less than 1.8 kW. We also had this interpretation verified by the California Energy Commission Building Standards Office Outreach & Education Unit in June of 2023. Specifically for newly constructed single-family buildings including ADUs, dig deep into page 354 of the 2022 Building Energy Efficiency Standards to find Exception 2 to Section 150.1(c)14: No PV system is required when the minimum PV system size specified by section 150.1(c)14 is less than 1.8 Kw. Once your ADU is more than 1125 sqft, no matter what climate zone you are in, your project will need solar (unless the ADU is a conversion or an addition, as those are entirely exempt from the solar requirement). In general for Greater San Diego: all small (<620 square feet) ADUs may be exempt from solar requirements, while units above that threshold in certain climate zones will require solar. Do I need to install solar panels for my Accessory Dwelling Unit?Ĭalifornia state law requires that all new construction – including newly-built accessory dwelling units – must have solar panels, BUT there are important exemptions to this rule. Read on to learn when and why you need to install solar panels onto your new California ADU. You may also hear mixed information about whether solar is or is not required on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and the reason for that is because the regulations have been changing… plus local jurisdictions are mixed in their interpretation & application of the code.īut don’t worry, we stay up to date on changes so you can be informed of all the key regulations and how that translates on your ADU project. We offer a wide range of services, from repairs and replacements to installations and more.You may have heard that the state of California is making an effort to move all new construction in the direction of sustainability and renewable energy. Solar Roofing San Marcos TX is your top choice for solar roofing services. ![]()
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