California Energy Commission (Energy Commission) staff, in consultation with the staff of the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD), have recommended a phased introduction of nonresidential energy efficiency code for licensed medical facilities with the first phase beginning with the launch of the 2019 Standards, which are expected to become effective on January 1, 2020.
The Energy Commission is recommending a phased approach to ensure facilities have ample time to transition to the new requirements. According to the Energy Commision's measure proposal,
"...the proposed measures will have no negative impact on patient or healthcare staff health and welfare. The first phase would begin with the 2019 code cycle (going into effect on January 1, 2020). The proposed first phase would not introduce significant new healthcare facility-specific code, but rather add relevant definitions and extend a subset of existing and proven commercial building energy efficiency standards that have no potential adverse effect on patient health. By extending the scope of the building standards, developing appropriate code definitions, and then applying exceptions where necessary, the 2019 code cycle can lay the foundation for sensible and cost-effective future energy building codes for hospitals and licensed medical facilities in the state. "
To read the Energy Commission's full measure proposal for licensed healthcare facilities, click here. Additional information on updates to California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards may be found on the Energy Commission website.