Blog
September 1, 2026
California continues to lead the nation in energy-efficient building standards by requiring solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on most new construction projects. Under the California Energy Commission’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24), solar requirements apply to nearly all new single-family homes, low-rise and high-rise multifamily developments, and many commercial buildings. These standards are designed to reduce energy consumption, encourage renewable energy adoption, and improve long-term building performance.
Suntrek Solar helps builders, developers, architects, and homeowners meet California’s Title 24 solar requirements with customized solar solutions for new construction projects. From system design and engineering to installation and code compliance, our experienced team works closely with every project to deliver reliable solar systems that satisfy state requirements while supporting long-term energy performance and project goals.
Not every new construction project requires the same solar PV system. California’s energy standards calculate system size based on the building’s characteristics, helping ensure the solar installation aligns with the property’s projected energy needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.
For single-family homes and low-rise multifamily developments, the solar system is generally sized to offset the building’s estimated annual electricity usage. Commercial buildings and high-rise multifamily properties follow separate prescriptive requirements that consider factors such as usable roof area, including Solar Access Roof Area (SARA), to determine the minimum solar capacity needed for compliance.
California’s building standards continue to expand beyond solar panels alone. Most newly constructed commercial buildings and high-rise multifamily developments are now required to include Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) alongside their solar PV installations. For new single-family homes, projects that do not install a battery immediately must typically be built as BESS-ready, allowing solar battery storage to be added easily in the future.
Even projects that qualify for certain solar exemptions must generally meet solar-ready requirements. This includes preparing the home or building with designated roof space, electrical panel capacity, and pre-installed conduit or wiring so a future solar installation can be completed efficiently if needed.
Although California requires solar systems on most new construction, there are situations where a project may qualify for an exemption.
Common exemptions include:
Every project is different, so evaluating site conditions early in the design process is important to determine whether any exemptions apply.
Meeting California’s energy code is only one part of designing an effective solar system. A properly engineered system should also consider the property’s future energy demands, available roof space, and long-term operating costs.
At Suntrek Solar, we develop solar solutions that integrate seamlessly with the building’s design while supporting both code compliance and long-term performance. We work closely with builders and developers throughout the planning process, and when appropriate, we also collaborate directly with homeowners to better understand their energy goals and lifestyle needs.
Suntrek Solar combines three complementary solar solutions to help new construction projects meet California’s energy requirements while maximizing long-term performance and efficiency.
Our Offers Includes:
By incorporating these technologies into new construction projects, homeowners can enjoy a more sustainable home while reducing long-term energy expenses.
Navigating California’s evolving solar requirements requires careful planning, technical expertise, and a partner who understands both building codes and renewable energy systems. Suntrek Solar has more than 30 years of experience designing and installing solar solutions for residential and commercial new construction projects throughout Southern California, Northern California, and Las Vegas, NV
Our team can help you design a solar solution that supports compliance, efficiency, and long-term performance. Contact Suntrek Solar to learn more about our solar PV systems, battery storage solutions, solar pool heating, and solar water heating services for new construction.
