CLD Energy Codes 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under ASHRAE 90.1, which calculation method allows a designer to redistribute lighting power among spaces as long as the building total does not exceed the allowed wattage?
- Space-by-space method
- Building area method (Correct answer)
- Whole-building trade-off method
- Prescriptive compliance path
Correct answer: Building area method
The building area method sets a single LPD for the entire building type, allowing power redistribution among spaces as long as the aggregate total stays within the limit.
Question 2: ASHRAE 90.1 requires automatic shutoff controls for interior lighting in spaces larger than what square footage threshold?
- 1,000 sq ft
- 2,500 sq ft (Correct answer)
- 5,000 sq ft
- 10,000 sq ft
Correct answer: 2,500 sq ft
ASHRAE 90.1 mandates automatic shutoff controls in interior spaces larger than 2,500 square feet.
Question 3: Which ASHRAE 90.1 provision allows an additional lighting power allowance for retail display lighting beyond the base LPD?
- Decorative allowance
- Task lighting exemption
- Additional interior lighting power allowance (Correct answer)
- Accent lighting credit
Correct answer: Additional interior lighting power allowance
ASHRAE 90.1's additional interior lighting power allowances grant extra wattage for specific functions such as retail merchandise display.
Question 4: In California Title 24, what is the term for the mandatory control that dims or turns off lighting when adequate daylight is detected?
- Occupancy sensing
- Demand response control
- Daylight control (Correct answer)
- Automatic time-switch control
Correct answer: Daylight control
Title 24 calls for daylight controls (photosensors with dimming or switching) in daylit zones to reduce energy use when sunlight is sufficient.
Question 5: Under ASHRAE 90.1's space-by-space method, which space type typically has the highest allowed LPD?
- Office — open plan
- Sales area (Correct answer)
- Corridor/transition area
- Electrical/mechanical room
Correct answer: Sales area
Retail sales areas are assigned among the highest LPD values in ASHRAE 90.1 because of their high-intensity merchandise display needs.
Question 6: Which code document specifically governs residential and commercial energy use and is adopted at the state level with local amendments in the US?
- NFPA 70
- IECC (Correct answer)
- IBC
- ANSI/IES RP-1
Correct answer: IECC
The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets baseline energy efficiency requirements for buildings and is adopted—often with amendments—by states and municipalities.
Question 7: A conference room in an office building has an occupancy sensor installed. Under ASHRAE 90.1, what additional automatic control is typically ALSO required for this space?
- Dimming ballast
- Automatic time-switch or scheduling control (Correct answer)
- Daylight sensor
- Manual override switch at 120V
Correct answer: Automatic time-switch or scheduling control
ASHRAE 90.1 requires both occupancy sensing AND an automatic shutoff (time-switch or scheduling) for many space types to ensure lights are off during unoccupied building hours.
CLD Energy Codes 2
Under ASHRAE 90.1, which calculation method allows a designer to redistribute lighting power among spaces as long as the building total does not exceed the allowed wattage?