Santa Monica’s Energy Code (2016) requires all new buildings use 10%-15% less energy than allowed by the 2016 California Energy Code, and achieve an energy design rating of zero. It requires solar energy be used for as the primary energy source for heated pools. It requires new buildings include 1.5 – 2.0 watts of solar per square foot, (or, in the case of 1-2 family residential, offset at least 75% of the building’s energy budget).