Reach Codes make public health a top priority

EBCE is supporting the development of “reach codes,” forward-thinking building and transportation codes that go beyond what is required by the state.

Every three years, cities and counties across the state can adopt local reach codes in line with the new Building Standards Code (Standards), or Title 24, of the California Code of Regulations. By developing reach codes, cities in Alameda County can do their part to save energy and reduce GHG emissions.

When they go all-electric, buildings, vehicles, and off-road equipment transition from carbon-based fuels such as natural gas, gasoline, and diesel to clean energy provided by EBCE.

Several cities within Alameda County have utilized reach codes, including Albany, Berkeley, Fremont, Hayward, and Oakland.

To support Cities in the development of a reach code, EBCE has launched the Municipal Electrification Assistance Program. Cities can apply to receive technical assistance to support the development of a new Reach Code ordinance, or can request assistance to facilitate implementation of an existing Reach Code.

Reach codes may include:

• Prescriptive Codes
  One or more specific energy efficiency measures are required, such as high-efficiency all-electric heating equipment.

• Performance Codes
  Requires that a building must perform more efficiently, based on accepted computer modeling. Performance codes allow trade-offs between energy efficiency measures.