Energy Performance and Fire-Resistant Construction with AIA Central Coast
2026-05-20 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Madonna Inn’s Round Room, 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93405, United States
Register
Event Description
With increasing fire intensity throughout the state and more areas designated with high fire severity zones, our region is naturally interested in building construction that decreases fire risk. Fortunately, there is an overlap of strategies that reduce fire risk while also improving energy performance and indoor occupant health. This course walks through those strategies for new construction, highlighting the confluence of the Title 24 Energy code, WUI and Zero Net Carbon Design.
Learning Objectives

Understand where the energy code, Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) code and Zero Net Carbon Design (ZNCD) overlap in building construction.
Identify code requirements and key strategies for hardening the building envelope and improving energy efficiency through air sealing and strategic window choices.
Discuss impacts and opportunities for PV panels and battery storage systems, including size, placement, and chemistry.
Evaluate options for locating electric heat pumps and heat pump water heaters to support both energy efficiency and fire resistance.

Learning Units

1.00 AIA LU approved for this course

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting

Builder's Perspective: Insulation and Air Sealing
2026-05-26 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Insulation and air sealing are critical aspects of construction, contributing to improved energy performance, reduced operating costs, greater indoor air quality and resiliency during a wildfire emergency. Insulation and air sealing can also contribute to increased construction costs and challenges for building sign-off if not managed effectively. In this course, we’ll hear the builder’s perspective for sequencing the work, selecting materials, training teams on site and getting the results you want.
Learning Objectives

Talk through options for insulation and air and vapor barriers and best practices for selecting and installing each
Review the potential negative consequences of thermal bridging in walls and roofs and discuss assemblies that avoid those outcomes
Learn the application and benefits of rain screens in the central coast climate and different techniques and materials for a rain screen assembly
Learn big and little spaces that are problem-areas in air sealing and how to use catch them early in construction

Learning Units

1.0 AIA LU
1.0 CAB ZNCD CEU

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Mike Horgan, Cairn Collaborative Design Build
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Home Improvements for a Healthier, Resilient, and Clean-Energy Future
2026-05-27 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
Overview of a new one-page guide for homeowners. With the premise that most home improvement projects have the potential to improve or harm performance, it’s helpful to be informed of basic building science principles. The class will spotlight the benefits many homeowners look to achieve, a recommended order of steps to take, and building details in a range of improvements. Homeowners can meet their goals and enjoy their benefits while reducing emissions.
The guide was created to serve two purposes:
1. To inform homeowners in the early process of planning improvements to existing homes. To provide a descriptive path to increasing performance while reducing emissions, mindful of the whole-house approach. While not exhaustive, the intent is to raise awareness of the complete A-Z considerations in a short take-away info sheet. Much of the public messaging in recent years has focused on electrification but has left out the foundational principles of high-performance enclosures, which are so essential to optimal outcomes.
2. In response to a question, I’ve often heard expressed, “I’m concerned about climate change, but what can I do as an individual?” The guide illustrates ways we can reduce emissions within our households. Our climate actions can start with our own homes!
There are two versions of the guide with the subtitles tailored to each purpose. The one-page, two-sided guide in hard copy will also be accessible online with live links to resources. In addition to homeowners, the guide is useful as an educational tool for contractors, programs and outreach organizations, building departments, and Realtors.
Learning Objectives
• Attendees will be equipped with a handy one-page guide designed for homeowners. The guide is also useful to contractors and others as an educational tool to share with their customers.
• Attendees will comprehend the myriad benefits to both house and occupants of higher performance homes. We’ll address the topic of increased market value, not often delineated from a professional standpoint.
• Attendees will be cognizant of a recommended, science-informed, step-by-step process of implementation that typically makes the most practical and cost-effective sense, while also encouraged to tailor their choices to personal priorities.
• Attendees will be aware of the fundamental elements of a highly efficient enclosure, what switching to all-electric mechanical systems looks like, and how to attain low to zero greenhouse gas emissions with solar plus batteries.
Learning Units
N/A
Instructors
Debra Little, AjO
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

The Practical Guide to All-Electric Residential Buildings (Part 1): Why All-Electric, Solar, Cooking
2026-05-28 12:00 - 13:30
Register
Event Description
The case for building all-electric is stronger than ever. All-electric homes are cheaper to build and operate, healthier and more comfortable to live in, and have GHG emissions roughly half that of mixed-fuel homes. The 2025 California Energy Code makes heat pumps standard statewide, which will accelerate adoption of all-electric buildings. This 2-part class will show why electric homes facilitate easier energy code compliance. Taught by two instructors who have built all-electric homes for themselves, and will broadcast live from in front of their heat pump water heaters and induction stoves, you’ll get an insider view of how to design and build electric homes, including examples from their professional work, how to overcome common objections and obstacles, and lessons learned from the field. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the technologies that enable all-electric homes, including heat pump heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters, induction cooking, and heat pump clothes dryers.
Learning Objectives

Why All-Electric homes are superior to typical mixed fuel homes in terms of cost, health, emissions, and quality of life
Key products and systems used in all-electric homes (heat pumps for space conditioning, heat pump water heaters, induction cooktops, and electric clothes dryers)
How to model all-electric systems for Title 24 compliance
Cost-effectiveness of all-electric designs compared to traditional designs
Single-family and multifamily examples plus remodels and ADUs
Quality of life reasons to consider all-electric designs

Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart Group
Robert Fortunato, ForStrategy Consulting, Inc.
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

2025 Energy Code in Practice: Nonresidential
2026-06-03 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Sorting through tables and reading the fine print in the energy code may get you the specific language of the code, but what does that really mean in practice? In this series, we’ll walk through key components for each building occupancy type, providing sample details, photos of installations and potential pitfalls to avoid. Highlighting 2025 changes throughout, this course is intended for designers, builders and building officials. Bring your questions and join in the discussion.
a. Single Family Residential (SFR)
b. SFR Additions + Alterations
c. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s)
d. Multifamily Residential
e. Nonresidential- THIS COURSE!
Learning Objective

Understand the metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach, and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
1.5 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Reducing Carbon Emissions from MEP Systems
2026-06-09 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
As we move to reduce carbon emissions from our buildings and align with California carbon-reduction goals, we often overlook the impacts, and opportunities, in mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems beyond upfront energy efficiency. Emerging data, however, is giving us a fuller picture of how MEP design, system specifications and refrigerants contribute to emissions and how alternative design strategies can reduce those impacts. This course highlights the issues for designers, owners and engineers and proposes opportunities and solutions for residential and non-residential construction.
Learning Objectives

Understand the Impact of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to whole-life carbon emissions for buildings.

Learn about emerging tools and methodologies for measuring embodied carbon in MEP systems, including the challenges and opportunities in data availability and standardization.

Learn near-term strategies to reduce MEP carbon emissions within the context of a whole-life carbon approach to design and engineering.

Become familiar with the state of the industry for assessing and reporting emissions and the work currently in progress.

Learning Units

1 AIA HSW LU
1 CAB ZNCD CEU

Instructor
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Michelle Zimney, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

The Practical Guide to All-Electric Residential Buildings (Part 2): Water Heating, HVAC, Laundry
2026-06-11 12:00 - 13:30
Register
Event Description
The case for building all-electric is stronger than ever. All-electric homes are cheaper to build and operate, healthier and more comfortable to live in, and have GHG emissions roughly half that of mixed-fuel homes. The 2025 California Energy Code makes heat pumps standard statewide, which will accelerate adoption of all-electric buildings. This 2-part class will show why electric homes facilitate easier energy code compliance. Taught by two instructors who have built all-electric homes for themselves, and will broadcast live from in front of their heat pump water heaters and induction stoves, you’ll get an insider view of how to design and build electric homes, including examples from their professional work, how to overcome common objections and obstacles, and lessons learned from the field. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the technologies that enable all-electric homes, including heat pump heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters, induction cooking, and heat pump clothes dryers.
Learning Objectives

Why All-Electric homes are superior to typical mixed fuel homes in terms of cost, health, emissions, and quality of life
Key products and systems used in all-electric homes (heat pumps for space conditioning, heat pump water heaters, induction cooktops, and electric clothes dryers)
How to model all-electric systems for Title 24 compliance
Cost-effectiveness of all-electric designs compared to traditional designs
Single-family and multifamily examples plus remodels and ADUs
Quality of life reasons to consider all-electric designs

Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
0.15 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart Group
Robert Fortunato, ForStrategy Consulting, Inc.
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Natural Insulation for Low Carbon Builds
2026-06-16 10:00 - 11:30
Register
Event Description
Natural Insulation has many benefits for builders and occupants but not everyone is familiar with these products. Discover how natural insulation products can be the perfect solution for you. Our natural insulation training is perfect for architects, builders, and anyone interested in sustainable solutions. Eric Fenno will explain the latest in natural insulation, share real-world examples, and give practical tips on how to use these eco-friendly materials to save energy and create healthier spaces.
Learning Objectives
As a result of attending the trainings, participants will be able to:
· Articulate the benefits of using natural insulation in a single-family or multi-family project.
· Distinguish the benefits of using cork or wool insulation.
· Identify the best situations for using these products and other natural products in a build.
Learning Units

1.0 AIA LUs applied for this course

Instructors
Eric Fenno – Small Planet Supply
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Green Building Construction Tour -- Morro Bay
2026-06-16 15:30 - 17:00 | Morro Bay: Location provided upon registration, Morro Bay, CA, 93442, United States
Register
Event Description
Here’s an opportunity to visit a green building project in person, to learn more about the process and see the implementation of energy efficiency and building electrification in practice. As we tour an active construction site, the builder will provide first-hand information on implementation, lessons learned and best practices. Builder Mike Horgan of Cairn Collaborative will lead the tour and answer questions.
Learning Objectives

Learn about installation requirements and options for heat pump mechanical systems
Discuss heat pump hot water systems and learn the space and location requirements and potential pitfalls to avoid
Discuss ventilation and indoor air quality and different options appropriate for retrofits versus new construction
Review wall, floor and roof assemblies for insulation and air sealing best practices as well as consideration for embodied carbon of selected materials.

Learning Units

1 AIA HSW LU approved for this course
1 ZNCD CEU approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Mike Horgan, Cairn Collaborative Design Build
Location
Project address in Morro Bay will be provided to registered participants.

Home Electrification Contractor Boot Camp (In-Person with Larry Waters!)
2026-06-17 08:00 - 2026-06-18 17:00 | SLO County Builders Exchange, 153 Cross St Ste 130, San Luis Obsipo, CA, 93401, United States
Register
Two-Day Course Description
This two-day course provides a robust introduction into residential building electrification. It is designed for construction trade personnel of all levels; including owners, sales managers, salespeople, installers, service technicians, and office support staff (primarily Day 1 for support staff). A key distinction of this training is its design and delivery by Electrify My Home, a pioneering HVAC electrification company with real field experience navigating the ins and outs of this exciting new pathway.
Learning Objectives in the Context of Home Electrification

Understand driving forces, changing technologies, and shifting consumer preferences in the home electrification movement
Explore “Install Small” and “Good Electrification” concepts
Acquire soft skills in electrification sales to pivot from traditional gas heating to modern electric heat pumps without negatively affecting a company’s bottom line
Understand heat transfer mechanisms, functionality, and benefits of heat pumps for residential electrification

Course Content
Day 1—Electrification Basics
1a) Environment, Policy, and Culture
1b) The Clean Electric Home Solution
1c) “Install Small”
1d) Heat Pump Water Heaters
1e) Project Planning
Day 2—Soft Skills in Electrification Sales
2a) Building Envelope 101
2b) Timing & Opportunity
2c) Converting Your Customer
2d) Electrification Products and Panels
Event Dates
This is a two-day event:

June 17, 2026: 8:00am to 5:00pm
June 18, 2026: 8:00am to 5:00pm

Credits
NATE (16 CEHs x 10 specialties)
Instructors
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home

What a Load Calculation is and Why One Is So Important
2026-07-07 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
Learn what a heating and cooling load calculation on a building actually is. Discover what the main goal of a load calculation is. Explore what the heating and cooling loads on a building are and why a load calculation is unique to every building. Understand why it is important to perform a load calculation prior to specifying heating and cooling equipment.
Learning Objectives

Be able to define what a heating and cooling load calculation is.
Learn what the goal of the load calculation procedure is.
Realize that rules of thumb do not accurately predict how much heating and cooling a building needs.

Learning Units
1 AIA LU pending for this course
Instructors
Judy Rachel, Home Performance Pro
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

2025 CALGreen - Residential
2026-07-08 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
The California Green Building Standards, or CALGreen (Title 24, Part 11), is a wide-ranging code covering aspects of site design, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, water efficiency, indoor air quality and much more. In this course, we’ll focus on residential Mandatory Measures and Tiers, providing examples of implementation and highlighting 2025 changes throughout.
Learning Objectives

Understand CAL Green compliance process for residential projects, highlighting changes in the 2025 code.
Become familiar with CAL Green mandatory measures and green building benefits of each, including new single family and multi-family electric vehicle charging requirements
Understand Tier 1 and Tier 2 options.
Learn tools and best practices for submitting and reviewing compliance documentation.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs pending for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs pending for this course

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Tatiana Soglin, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Recovery Ventilator: Installation, Energy Savings, and Compliance
2026-07-15 14:00 - 16:00
Register
Event Description
Improved health and cognitive performance. Easier Title 24 compliance. Utility bill savings. These are the reasons to consider incorporating Heat Recovery Ventilators & Energy Recovery Ventilators (collectively Recovery Ventilators or RVs) into your next high-performance home project.
The instructors are a high-performance home contractor and energy consultant, who together have specified and installed hundreds of RVs. They will draw on these experiences and data gathered from these units to better understand these mechanical ventilation systems and their benefits. They will cover the details of ducting to the outside for inlet and exhaust air and distributing the supply and exhaust throughout homes. Balancing airflow rates and maintenance requirements will also be covered.
We will also go over new 2025 energy code requirements for balanced ventilation and heat recovery in multifamily dwelling units, how to add a RV to a Title 24 compliance energy model and the change in energy use and compliance metrics that results. We’ll present various configurations of RVs, including through-the-wall paired units, packaged HRVs and packaged ERVs, and various ducting options.
Learning Objectives

Understand the basics of how Recovery Ventilators (RVs) work to improve indoor air quality in homes and reduce heating and cooling energy use
Learn the 2025 energy code requirements for mechanical ventilation in single family and multifamily buildings and how RVs impact Title 24 compliance metrics
Model a case study home and multifamily building using RVs and examine the energy use and compliance scores in various configurations
Hear best practices for specifying and installing RVs

Learning Units

2.0 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.2 ICC CEUs approved for this course
2.0 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart Group
Scott Kelly, SK Fresh Air
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Next Generation Passive Solar & Passive House
2026-07-22 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
We all learned the principles of passive solar design in school – south facing orientation, strategic windows, thermal mass, etc., but the old rules don’t apply in the same way. In the meantime, Passive House building principles are folding into every-day construction. Modern buildings should still incorporate a range of passive strategies, but they need a new spin on the implementation to account for improved insulation, prevalence of high-performance glazing, and efficient HVAC systems and lighting.
Learning Units
1 AIA LUs pending for this course
Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Using the ECC (HERS) Registry for Energy Code Compliance
2026-07-30 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
This class teaches you how to use the ECC (formerly HERS) Registry to track the status of all of the ECC tests and inspections, as well as all of the other compliance documents: CF1R, CF2Rs, and CF3Rs. The Project Status Report generated by the registry is probably the single most valuable tool for building departments to ensure compliance with the energy code.
Learning Objectives

What the ECC program is in the energy code
How ECC verification fits into the overall compliance process
When a project is required to be registered with an ECC provider and when it is not
How to find a project in an ECC registry
How to use the ECC registry to track compliance documentation for a project
How to use the ECC registry to save time on field inspections

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
1.5 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructor
Russ King, Coded Energy
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

2025 CALGreen - Nonresidential
2026-08-05 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
The California Green Building Standards, or CALGreen (Title 24, Part 11), is a wide-ranging code covering aspects of site design, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, water efficiency, indoor air quality, embodied carbon and much more. In this course, we’ll focus on the non-residential sections of the code, providing examples of implementation and highlighting 2025 changes throughout.
Learning Objectives

Understand CAL Green compliance process for nonresidential projects, highlighting changes in the 2025 code.
Become familiar with CAL Green mandatory measures and green building benefits of each, including new embodied carbon triggers and electric vehicle charging requirements
Understand Tier 1 and Tier 2 options.
Learn tools and best practices for submitting and reviewing compliance documentation.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs will apply for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs will apply for this course

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Tatiana Soglin, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Heat Pump Water Heater Installation Training at Cedar Valley Plumbing Oxnard
2026-08-13 07:00 - 08:30 | Cedar Valley Plumbing in Oxnard, 1710 Westar Drive, Oxnard, CA, 93033, United States
Register
Event Description
Heat pump water heaters (HPWH) are becoming the standard in California. This free training will prepare your plumbers to install them correctly to avoid callbacks and achieve their full potential in terms of efficiency, capacity, longevity, and customer satisfaction. We’ll cover how they work, the range of models available on the market, the critical detail of air flow, and research on closet installs and condensation risk. You’ll come out prepared to add heat pump water heaters to your business and avoid some common installation hurdles.
Nick Brown is an expert on energy efficiency and Title 24 and has two heat pump water heaters operating at his house under continuous monitoring.
Learning Objectives

Acquire practical skills through a hands-on demonstration on installing a HPWH in a closet
Explore the do’s and don’ts of installation based on real-life examples
Understand the importance of air flow for HPWHs
Distinguish how HPWHs are different from typical water heaters

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart

Ask the Experts: Energy Compliance & Modeling
2026-08-19 10:00 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Join us for an office-hours style open discussion focused on energy code compliance and performance modeling. This interactive session gives participants direct access to experts who can help clarify Energy Code requirements, compliance forms, modeling approaches, and energy modeling software. Bring your questions and real-world project challenges! The conversation will be guided by the needs and questions of attendees.
The session will be led by Grant Murphy of In Balance Green Consulting, one of 3C-REN’s Energy Code Coaches. Grant is a Certified Energy Analyst with extensive experience in energy code compliance and performance modeling, and he brings a practical, real-world perspective to helping project teams navigate energy code requirements with confidence.
Instructors
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Introduction to Residential HVAC Design
2026-08-20 14:00 - 16:00
Register
Event Description
This class will cover the basics of residential HVAC design following the industry standard and code-referenced ACCA Manuals J, S and D. It will discuss the four steps of the design process:

Collecting information about the house.
Performing load calculations (Manual J)
Selecting equipment appropriate to the load calculations (Manual S)
Design a duct system for efficiency and comfort (Manual D)

It will also discuss some of the new technologies and software that has reduced the time it takes to do a design by up to 75%.
Learning Objectives

Understand the basic terminology and concepts
Understand the ACCA Manuals
Understand the basic steps in the design process
Learn about new technologies and software that make the process much faster

Learning Units

2.0 AIA LUs pending for this course

Instructors
Russ King, Coded Energy
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

2025 Energy Code: Multifamily Ventilation
2026-09-01 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is an important part of supporting Health & Safety for multifamily dwelling units, and the 2025 Energy Code establishes new Mandatory requirements for IAQ ventilation in multifamily buildings. Additional prescriptive standards now also apply to multifamily IAQ in support of energy efficiency and Health & Safety. Join us for this 1-hour session in which we will dive into the equipment and testing requirements for multifamily dwelling unit IAQ and local exhaust systems (such as kitchen range hoods).
Learning Objectives

Communicate how Indoor Air Quality is a key piece of the Energy Code in support of Health & Safety
Determine what design options are allowed for IAQ systems by the 2025 Energy Code, and the testing protocols that result from the design configuration used for the project.
Establish the minimum kitchen range hoods local exhaust requirements for design documents and installation.
Examine the benefits of Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) and Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) systems and be able to identify the Energy Code requirements in regard to ERV and HRV systems.

Learning Units

1.0 AIA HSW LUs pending for this course
0.10 ICC CEUs pending for this course
1.0 CEA CEUs pending for this course

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart Group
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Critical Details for Accurate Load Calculations
2026-09-03 11:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
Learn what the critical details are that make the difference between an accurate load calculation versus the rule of thumb guesstimate used by so many HVAC companies. Manual J myths, mysteries and truths will be revealed to attendees of this session.
Learning Objectives

Gain knowledge of the critical details needed to create accurate load calculations based upon ACCA Manual J procedures.
Have a list of ACCA Manual J do’s, the mandatory requirements for an accurate load calculation.
Have a list of ACCA Manual J don’ts that will result in oversized, wildly inaccurate load calculations.

Learning Units
1 AIA LU pending for this course
Instructor
Judy Rachel, Home Performance Pro
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Energy Code Compliance Verification (formerly HERS) – Overview and Envelope
2026-09-09 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Under the new 2025 energy code, HERS rating is now called Energy Code Compliance (ECC), but regardless of the name change, the 3rd-party verification process is still a great way to improve energy performance and meet the Title 24 Energy code. In this two-part course, we’ll cover what
architects and builders need to know to successfully integrate ECC measures into residential design and construction. Part 1 will provide an overview of ECC verification, show how it fits into the building code and address envelope-related ECC measures.
Learning Objectives

Learn the roles and communication points for integrating ECC measures into permit plans, Title 24 documents and construction schedules.
Identify the library of ECC measures and which are Mandatory/Prescriptive and which are optional for use in Performance compliance.
Understand the requirements for Quality Insulation Installation (QII) and tips for passing the first time.
Learn the process for checking Air Leakage and how to use the tools at key construction milestones.

Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs will apply for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs will apply for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs will apply for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Paul Dunn, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Higher-Performance Residential Remodels
2026-09-23 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Working through specific examples, we’ll help project teams identify strategies that have the highest impact for improving energy efficiency, comfort and indoor healthy environments in renovations and additions. Beginning with a focus on client needs and incorporating occupant goals, a high-performance remodel may be phased or done all at once, may focus on efficient equipment and appliances or more on indoor comfort, and may be very visible or mostly behind-the-scenes. Come learn the art and science of higher-performance remodels!
Learning Units
1 AIA LU pending for this course
Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Ask the Experts: Heat Pump Water Heater & Solar Permitting
2026-09-24 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
Join us for an office-hours style open discussion focused on permitting requirements for heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) and solar installations. This interactive session provides direct access to an industry expert who can help clarify general permitting processes, answer project-specific questions, and address common challenges encountered by contractors, designers, installers, and building professionals. Bring your questions and participate in an open dialogue designed to support successful project planning, compliance, and implementation.
The session will be led by Reuben Veek, Founder and Executive Director of SunWork. Reuben has been installing grid-tied residential solar energy systems since 2006 and has overseen the construction of more than 250 systems throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast. In addition to solar, SunWork operates a HPWH installation program that uses a unique volunteer-supported model to make electrification projects more affordable while providing hands-on education for people interested in clean energy careers. With extensive experience in both solar and HPWH installations, and experience working with 3C-REN’s Home Energy Savings program to install HPWH, Reuben brings practical insights and real-world expertise to help participants better understand permitting requirements, common challenges, and best practices for successful project implementation.
Learning Units
1 AIA LU pending for this course
Instructors
Reuben Veek, SunWork
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Passive House & Fire Resilience
2026-09-30 09:00 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
With the growing occurrence of devastating wildfires, there’s an imperative to make buildings fire-safe and resilient. Passive House can support a clear pathway to achieve these goals. The class will review the latest science on wildfires and building safety, including the interplay among building structure, the surrounding landscape, community, and the Passive House methodology. We will dive into a toolkit with specific steps for analyzing and implementing fire-resilient Passive House strategies for your next building project
Learning Objectives

Outline the threats that buildings, property, and people face due to the growing frequency of wildfires.
Describe critical weaknesses and failures in site and building design that compromise fire resilience.
Outline attributes, details, and quality control aspects of Passive House design and construction that support wildfire resilience.
Describe code, landscaping, and community strategies for strengthening fire resilience and the opportunities for Passive House to be implemented to enhance effectiveness.

Learning Units
2 AIA LUs approved for this course
Instructors
Ken Levenson, Passive House Network
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Ask The Experts: Stump the Chump – Bring Your Heat Pump Sales Objections
2026-10-08 09:00 - 10:30
Register
Event Description
Join Electrify My Home’s Larry Waters for an interactive “Ask the Experts” session focused on one of the biggest challenges in heat pump and home electrification sales: overcoming objections.
Whether attendees are hearing pushback from skeptical customers, struggling to clearly communicate the value of heat pumps, or working through their own questions about when and how electrification makes sense, this session will create space for real-world discussion, practical guidance, and live problem-solving.
Learning Objectives

Identify common customer objections to heat pumps and home electrification.
Practice effective ways to respond to concerns around comfort, cost, reliability, performance, and project complexity.
Understand the importance of identifying your customer’s personality type and matching your solutions to their needs.

Instructors
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Solar PV: Technology and Valuation
2026-10-13 09:00 - 12:00
Register
Event Description
Appraisers and Realtors will advance their credibility and competency to better serve their clients with solar-powered homes. Newly constructed homes have been required to have solar as of 2020 and existing home installations remain on an ongoing upward trend. How much value does solar add? What is the most essential number we need related to valuation? While saving money is the primary motive for homeowners to invest in solar, CA building codes and energy policies are key market drivers as goals prioritize decarbonization; all-electric buildings powered by solar. Attendees will be better equipped to represent solar assets accurately in sales, competently determine value, and be credible guides for buyers and sellers.
Learning Objectives

Answer essential questions regarding the valuation of a solar system
Identify components of solar systems
Be aware of variations in utility rates and their impact on value
Understand motives and market influencers of homeowner decisions
Determine the value of solar PV systems: 3 appraisal approaches
Accurately represent solar in listings including vital points to inform value
Stakeholder’s shared pool of knowledge to support fair valuations

Target Audience
Real Estate Appraisers, Agents, Lenders, Related Associates
Learning Level
Intermediate
*Course is designed for those familiar with valuation principles
Continuing Education Credits
3 hours continuing ed. BREA, DRE, BOE
Instructor
Debra Little, Ajo
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Energy Code Compliance Verification (formerly HERS) – HVAC, DHW, and IAQ
2026-10-15 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
3rd-party verification through ECC measures is a great way to improve energy performance and, more to the point, meet the Title 24 Energy code. This is the second part of a 2-part series, where we’ll cover what architects and builders need to know to successfully integrate ECC measures into design and construction related to HVAC and indoor air quality.
Learning Objectives

Review key roles and identify integration strategies for ECC measures related to mechanical systems
Learn ECC measures related to heat pumps, refrigerant charge, and air handlers and which are the best fit for specific projects
Understand ECC measures related to domestic hot water (DHW), including compact plumbing and pipe insulation
Discuss ducted systems and options for improving performance and compliance through verification.

Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs will apply for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs will apply for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs will apply for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Paul Dunn, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration.

Carbon Free Homes: Features, Benefits, Valuation
2026-10-20 09:00 - 12:00
Register
Event Description
Did you know that CA policy goals no longer aim for net zero energy? Going forward, it’s all about emissions reductions. CA’s building codes and energy policy impact the way homes are built and powered. Homes of the future will be carbon-free! Efficient, all-electric, powered by clean energy. How will the new requirements impact their market value? What benefits do buyers care about? Carbon free homes are typically more healthy, safe, comfortable, durable, resilient, and cost less to own. Their high performance elevates occupant’s quality of life while delivering multiple societal benefits including cleaner air and water.
Attendees will gain comprehension of specific features typical to carbon-free new and existing homes. In valuation or guiding customers in buying and selling, the proficiency gained in this course will be a professional differentiator that strengthens their business.
Learning Objectives

Recognize building elements typical to carbon-free homes
Understand emissions-reducing efficiency
Describe benefits of CF homes including indoor air quality and energy savings
Comprehend why air tightness is even more important than insulation
Relate how families have realized health improvements such as asthma
Gain familiarity with current building codes and energy policy
Comprehend approaches to valuation of efficiency assets and solar PV
Accurately represent carbon free homes in sales listings and appraisal reporting

Audience
Experienced Appraisers, Agents, Lenders, Related Professionals
Learning Level
Intermediate and Advanced
*Course is designed for those familiar with valuation principles
Continuing Education Credits
3 hours BREA, DRE, BOE
Instructor
Debra Little, Ajo
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

High-Performance Homes: Valuation 2
2026-10-26 09:00 - 12:00
Register
Event Description
Advancing appraiser training, this class builds on the content of courses 1 & 2, recommended as prerequisites.
How & Why: We’ll examine the details of a new all-electric, carbon-free, Passive House, currently under construction.
12 benefits of high-performance homes:

Health
Safety
Comfort
Quality
Durability
Aesthetics
Energy efficient
Water efficient
Resilient
Costs less to own.
Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Market value

Class exercises: Appraisers will practice application of knowledge gained in the 3-Course series to valuation questions pertaining to the example house.
Learning Objectives

Gain comprehension of high-performance assets and their benefits
Describe 12 benefits of high-performance homes
Be equipped with key questions to ask about comparables
Appraisers will further develop their expertise, gain practice in application, and enjoy group discussion of appraisal approaches and challenges as we consider a real, in-progress construction project

Target Audience
Experienced Appraisers
Learning Level
Intermediate and Advanced
*Course is designed for those familiar with valuation principles
Continuing Education Credits
3 hours BREA, BOE
Instructor
Debra Little, Ajo
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration
