California is the nation’s leader in clean energy goals, with the state committed to reaching 100 percent renewable and zero-carbon electricity by 2045. Both statewide and local regulations are requiring not only large utility companies to evolve, but home and building owners as well. On January 1st of this year, the California Energy Commission’s 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards went into effect for any new project permit- whether a new build or a retrofit. When undertaking new building projects in 2020 California, a comprehensive understanding of the updated rules and how they impact the design and construction of your building is essential.
Buildings must be energy efficient, conserve water, and enhance indoor and outdoor air quality like never before.
While the state’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards have been in existence since 1976, the guidelines are updated every few years, and each update establishes stricter rules than the previous iteration. According to the Commission the objectives are to reduce energy and water waste while improving indoor and outdoor air quality. The standards target the technologies, materials, and methods used in the construction process, ensuring that they are energy and water efficient. Compared to the 2016 version, the latest round of standards aims to reduce the energy use of a typically home by up to 53%, and for commercial buildings around 30%.
In order to achieve these reductions several new guidelines have been established, including:
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) consultants view each building as its own ecosystem, whose design must be minimally impactful to the environment by optimizing energy use and beneficial to the business by lowering costs, all while enabling indoor microclimates friendly to the people who occupy them. Because the MEP design process is multi-disciplinary no single element of a building’s HVAC, lighting, or water supply are developed in a vacuum; rather, they are considered holistically and designed to work in concert with one another. MEP consultants help business owners, architects, and other stakeholders achieve their objectives, allowing for buildings that are energy efficient, water sustainable, aesthetically appealing, cost reducing, and most importantly, comfortable
As an example, consider the impact that indoor air quality and microclimate have been shown to have on worker productivity in a typical office. If a workspace is too hot or too cold, or currents of air too turbulent or too stale, workers experience thermal discomfort and their performance suffers as a result. For this reason, an astutely designed HVAC system tailored specifically to the building type and intended use is necessary to achieve maximum indoor comfort. The same is true of lighting systems. By employing a mix of smart electrical lighting and allowance for natural light when feasible, good lighting can enhance mood and productivity. While HVAC and lighting can be designed to create an appealing space, these also represent nearly half of the energy consumed in a typical building. Because of this, comfort and aesthetic objectives must be pared with intelligent engineering design that achieves energy efficiency in a cost-effective way.
An interesting aspect of is the concept of the “energy budget”. In essence, an owner has two options when taking on a new project: employ the prescriptive methods of the Commission that are proven to be energy efficient or opt for a combination of other methods so long as they result in an equally efficient building. This freedom allows for a much more tailor-made design, though achieving the energy budget (measured in terms of the energy consumption per square foot of floor space) is not easy. With their multi-disciplinary approach an MEP consultant can assist in honoring the unique needs of your building concept, while meeting or even exceeding energy, water, and air quality requirements.
120 Degreez Engineering is a California based MEP consultant, and perfectly positioned to assist you in ensuring your latest building project meets California’s 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, all while achieving the unique comfort and operational objectives of your project. We have a strong portfolio in an array of building types- hotels, restaurants, apartment buildings, offices, and cannabis growth facilities- and offer a full array of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services. We understand the regulations of each of the 16 “climate zones” in California, and the approach that is appropriate for each building type, meaning our solution will be suited both to your project and locality. One downside of the new energy regulations are the increased initial cost they will add to new building projects. In the case of new single-family home construction, the increase will average $9,500, although ongoing energy cost savings will amount to $19,000 over thirty years. Understanding the impact of the higher initial cost in meeting the standards, our MEP consultants are committed to working with you to achieve the best possible long-term savings via smart and strategic engineering design.
Resources:
2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards (California)
Los Angeles Existing Building Energy and Water Efficiency Program
http://www.ladbs.org/docs/default-source/forms/green-building/ebewe-ordinances.pdf
In partnership with Oakes Architects, 120 Degreez designed a comprehensive electrical system with high-efficiency lighting and energy-saving controls to align with California’s updated energy efficiency standards. The multi-use complex also required extensive utility coordination and planning for the future installation of solar panels.
In partnership with Oakes Architects, 120 Degreez designed a comprehensive electrical system with high-efficiency lighting and energy-saving controls to align with California’s updated energy efficiency standards. The multi-use complex also required extensive utility coordination and planning for the future installation of solar panels.
In partnership with AO Architects, 120 Degreez provided full MEP services for an outpatient OSHPAD 3 clinic building and parking structure. Our services included BIM and documentation for schematics, design, and construction issuing.
In partnership with San Diego Gas and Electric, 120 Degreez Engineering was selected to evaluate the system design and install of a 30-megawatt hour battery energy storage system. Our team peer-reviewed the design, completed field assessments, and followed up with on-site code enforcement. We also coordinated with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and TUV during the construction, installation, and commissioning of the system.
On behalf of SWD Urethane, 120 Degreez Engineering was hired to provide a study of required classified hazardous locations at the facility. Drawing on our extensive experience, we were able to reduce the extent of classification and reduce installation costs for the owner.
In partnership with APG Process, we provided electrical engineering design and consultation services for a process and automation system for their a 385,000 square foot processing facility.
In partnership with Lee Olson and Marc Shen, this cannabis grow facility also required MEP engineering for a kitchen, lab, and retail outlet.
SERVICE
MEP
On behalf of 253 Farmacy, our team created custom MEP designs to engineer a sustainable vertical growing environment in a 25,000 square foot building. Our systems control humidity, temperature, and light intensity 24 hours a day, which helped the client exceed crop growth expectations and achieve profitability in the first year.
SERVICE
MEP
In collaboration with Sudberry and AO Architects, 120 Degreez provided MEP design services for the block-6 Civita project in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. The scope of our work encompassed Construction Administration and BIM services for this upscale mixed-use community, renowned for its vibrant ambiance and seamless integration of residences, village shops, and businesses amid parklands, open spaces, and pedestrian-friendly streets and walkways.
The project includes an extensive amenities and parking structure, offering 972+ stalls, all of which will be Naturally ventilated. With a total area exceeding 340,000 square feet for the parking structure and an additional 20,000 square feet for other facilities, the development aims to cater to the diverse needs of its residents and visitors.
Furthermore, the project integrates retail spaces, featuring approximately 23,000 square feet designated for general retail and an additional 25,000 square feet allocated for a market, contributing to the community’s vibrancy and providing essential services to its inhabitants.
SERVICE
MEP
120 Degreez collaborated with Sudberry and AO Architects to provide MEP design services for the block-4 Civita project in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. The scope of 120 Degreez’s work encompassed Construction Administration and BIM services for this upscale mixed-use community. Here, residences, village shops, and businesses blend harmoniously with parklands and pedestrian-friendly streets.
The project features a six-story residential building and a two-level parking structure. The residential building boasts over 213 units, divided into three estimated base unit types. Additionally, the development includes amenities and a parking facility with more than 516 stalls. Both the residential building and the parking structure will be mechanically ventilated. The total area, spanning approximately 122,000 square feet, includes the lobby, amenities, and parking structure.
Moreover, the project integrates retail spaces, with around 13,808 square feet designated for general retail and an additional 9,968 square feet allocated for food and beverage outlets.
SERVICE
MEP
AO Architects, in collaboration with Chipotle, has chosen 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a nationwide retail store.
INDUSTRY
Retail
SERVICE
MEP
Nadel Architects, in collaboration with Arc’teryx, has chosen 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a nationwide retail store spanning approximately 4,000 square feet.
INDUSTRY
Retail
SERVICE
MEP
Designed by TCA Architects, this towering edifice is a design endeavor boasting 242 residential units situated atop three levels of subterranean parking, complemented by rooftop amenities. Spanning a 1.7-acre plot, the development comprises seven 8-story mixed-use apartment buildings. Besides the usual hurdles associated with high-rise construction, this project navigates the additional complexity of being located within a Methane Zone designated by the City of Los Angeles. As such, stringent requirements must be met to ensure the rooftop amenities align with the high-rise category standards.
AO Architects, in collaboration with Westar Associates, chose 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a collection of 14 buildings spanning 175,000 square feet in Rancho Mission Viejo, California. This complex will host a new supermarket, a 35,000 square foot fitness center, various restaurants and retail outlets, a daycare facility, common areas/parks, a business park, as well as a convenience store and gas station complete with a carwash. Designed as a mixed-use village catering to all age groups, the project is centered around a meticulously planned 1+ acre park, serving as a community amenity and focal gathering point.
INDUSTRY
Retail
In partnership with AO Architects, 120 Degreez provided full MEP services for an Phase 3 Westfield University Town Center. Our services included BIM and documentation for schematics, design, and construction issuing.
CLIENT
Westfield
INDUSTRY
Retail
From Noble 33, the creators and visionaries behind TocaMadera, Casa Madera and Tocaya Organica, comes the latestconcept that will revolutionize the hospitality and cannabisindustries: Villa Noble. Villa Noble, the noblest of houses, is a private member’s-only cannabis club located in the heart of West Hollywood. The brand is derived from the 1930’s prohibition era and boasts nearly 35,000SF of indoor and outdoor space inclusive of: a flagship modern Mediterranean restaurant, a lush rooftop lounge and infinity pool, an expansive allday cannabis consumption lounge and live music venue, a VIP library, a 3-meal per day cannabis retail cafe, and a myriad of members-only amenities.
In partnership with Andmore, 120 Degreez provided MEP consulting and engineering for a six-story building, which included a covered pool lounge on the third level.
In partnership with Sudberry Property and Architect Orange, we engineered amenities and a mechanically ventilated parking structure above that wraps around the residential building.
In partnership with Togawa Smith Martin Inc., our team provided full MEP services and designed a custom HVAC system to work around limited ceiling heights and many other unique engineering challenges.
120 Degreez collaborated with Fenway and AO Architects to provide MEP design services for the Marea Village project in Encinitas, California. Their contributions extended to Construction Administration and BIM services for this sophisticated, vibrant mixed-use community. Here, residences, village shops, and businesses harmoniously blend with open-air retail space, a network of pedestrian-friendly streets and walkways, and stunning ocean panoramas. Positioned at 1900 and 1950 North Coast Highway 101 in the Leucadia community, the project comprises 94 apartment units, 34 hotel units, 18,261 square feet of non-residential space, a two-level underground parking facility, and additional surface parking. Site enhancements encompass BBQ and dining areas, street furniture, benches, and peaceful open spaces. With its coveted spot along the Pacific coast, the project provides unparalleled ocean views.
SERVICE
MEP
120 Degreez, in collaboration with Sudberry and AO Architects, delivered MEP design services for the block-6 Civita project in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. The scope of work for 120 Degreez encompassed Construction Administration and BIM services for this upscale mixed-use community, known for its vibrant atmosphere and harmonious integration of residences, village shops, and businesses amidst parklands, open spaces, and pedestrian-friendly streets and walkways.
The project entails a five-story hotel building and a parking lot designed to accommodate the hotel, featuring one level of underground structure. With an estimated 139 keys, the hotel stands as a focal point within the community. Additionally, the development includes amenities and a parking structure with over 139 stalls, all of which will be mechanically ventilated. The total area spans approximately 40,000 square feet for the parking structure and 90,000 square feet for the lobby and amenities.
Furthermore, the project incorporates retail spaces, with approximately 6,746 square feet allocated for general retail and an additional 2,814 square feet designated for food and beverage outlets, further enhancing the community’s appeal and offering convenience to residents and visitors alike.
In partnership with Architects Orange, we developed up-to-date electrical systems to renovate and reposition the outdated 1960s building while also preserving its historic integrity.
120 Degreez Engineering collaborated with Carmel Partners and Carrier Johnson + CULTURE on this 435 Unit, 8-story multi-family facility at 6th Avenue in San Diego, California. The scope of work 120 Degreez provided included MEP and Construction Administration. The project design consisted of 5 levels of Type 3 construction over a podium deck. Unique features of this facility included extended-stay hotel services in addition to traditional apartment units. This project also presented challenges due to the proximity of property lines which required the electrical utilities located within the facility’s footprint.
SERVICE
MEP
AO Architects, in collaboration with Penera Bread, has chosen 120 Degreez Engineering to deliver MEP design services for a nationwide retail store.
SERVICE
MEP
SERVICE
MEP
Nadel Architects, partnering with Safeway grocery, selected 120 Degreez Engineering to provide MEP design services for a grocery store covering approximately 50,000 square feet in Elk Grove, California.
INDUSTRY
Commercial
CLIENT
City of Scottsdale
INDUSTRY
Commercial
On behalf of the owners of City Square and its numerous tenants, 120 Degreez provided electrical and construction management for the replacement an aging switch gear in this high-rise facility. Our expert staff successfully resolved the city’s regulatory mandates in our client’s favor. By their estimation, our services saved the client more than a million dollars in installation and construction costs. Plus, they were able to retain a significant amount of leasable space that would have been lost under the city’s mandate.
CLIENT
City Square
INDUSTRY
Commercial
CLIENT
City of Phoenix
INDUSTRY
Commercial
On behalf of the City of Hawthorne, 120 Degreez provided full MEP design and created an artificial lighting system that is both energy efficient and designed to enhance emotional wellbeing. The custom lighting design extends into every space, includeing pedestrian walkways and outdoor parking.
CLIENT
City of Hawthorne
INDUSTRY
Commercial
SERVICE
MEP
In partnership with Oakes Architects, 120 Degreez designed a comprehensive electrical system with high-efficiency lighting and energy-saving controls to align with California’s updated energy efficiency standards. The multi-use complex also required extensive utility coordination and planning for the future installation of solar panels.
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