REALIZE-CA Design & Installation Guide

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry or the specific initiatives discussed. Core Insights - The REALIZE-CA program aims to retrofit affordable multifamily housing in California, focusing on mass deployment of zero-carbon-aligned retrofits and leveraging standardized retrofit packages and streamlined financing solutions [11][6]. - The estimated economic value of retrofitting nearly 50,000 affordable multifamily housing units annually is between $1.25 billion and$2.5 billion, highlighting the significant market potential [87]. Overview - The guide summarizes recommended technologies for retrofitting existing multifamily buildings in California, based on pilot demonstrations funded by the California Energy Commission [6]. - The REALIZE-CA retrofit package includes innovative building systems that reduce demand and can be paired with on-site renewable generation [7]. - The program has conducted 300,000 square feet of retrofit demonstration projects and designed a scalable multifamily retrofit program informed by demonstration data [11]. Retrofit Package - The retrofit package encompasses measures such as envelope improvements, HVAC upgrades, domestic hot water systems, lighting, and appliance replacements, with optional renewable energy technologies [9]. - The package is designed to pair buildings with specific characteristics with commercially available and scalable technologies [10]. Existing Conditions - Deterioration issues such as plumbing failures, structural deficiencies, and hazardous materials must be addressed by the owner for eligibility [13]. - Specific conditions that render a building ineligible include major plumbing or structural repairs, mold presence, and inadequate electrical capacity [13]. Eligibility Screening Process - The program includes an initial screening process for building owners to confirm eligibility through a web-based application [15]. - A field audit follows the initial screening to confirm the final retrofit package components [16]. Retrofit Measures - The retrofit package includes new windows, attic sealing, insulation, and optional elastomeric paint for durability [19]. - The window replacement will upgrade existing single-pane windows to double-pane windows meeting Title 24 performance specifications [21]. - Aerobarrier technology is used for attic sealing, achieving a 55% reduction in air leakage compared to manual sealing methods [30][34]. Heating, Cooling, Ventilation, and Hot Water - The retrofit packages will serve buildings with split direct expansion HVAC systems and unitary tank-style water heating systems [48]. - The Villara AquaThermAire system is a multifunction mechanical system providing heating, cooling, and domestic hot water [49]. Financing Opportunities and Tools - The report highlights the need for braiding incentives and financing to stimulate the market and achieve the target of retrofitting 50,000 affordable multifamily housing units annually [87].