Introduction
According to the California Department of Finance's Economic Forecast, the number of multifamily new construction units permitted in California has grown from 26% of all residential permits to around 40% between 2005 and 2007. Assuming this trend continues, California could save an average of 1,155,521 kWh annually if just 10% of the newly constructed units exceed 2008 Title 24 standards by 15%.

This Multifamily Design Guide For Energy Efficiency provides a summary of resources, methods, and tools to assist the design community in building more energy efficient multifamily buildings. Energy efficiency in multifamily buildings is measured, regulated, and evaluated in California by both the Title 24 Building Energy Standards and the Title 20 Appliance Standards.

This document focuses on multifamily energy efficiency in an effort to better understand appliance efficiency metrics and the various mechanisms for exceeding the minimum Title 24 building standards.

Architects, engineers, energy consultants and owner-developers with a basic knowledge of building science fundamentals will learn how these subjects apply and are specifically relevant to multifamily housing projects.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Unique Challenges and Solutions for Multifamily Energy Efficiency
3. Impact of Title 24 Code Requirements on Building Energy Use
4. Energy Efficiency Measures for Multifamily Buildings
5. Non-Energy Benefits of Multifamily Energy Efficiency
6. Special Opportunities for Affordable Housing
7. Resources for Designers and Product Specification