The SBCC BFRW Committee convened on April 11, 2025, to discuss significant updates to building codes, particularly focusing on electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The meeting emphasized the need for adjustments to accommodate the growing demand for EV capabilities in new constructions.

The session began with a discussion on the sizing of electrical runs, which must now accommodate an increase of up to 20%. This adjustment is crucial for ensuring that new buildings can support the necessary infrastructure for EV charging. Patrick, a committee member, highlighted that each category of parking spaces must be calculated separately and rounded up to the nearest whole number, which could lead to a higher total than simply adding percentages.

Further discussions revolved around the proposals put forth by Todd and Patrick. Todd's approach was recognized for its logical reasoning and improvements over current codes, particularly in relation to transformer sizing and the shift towards more EV-capable spaces. Patrick expressed appreciation for Todd's work but suggested that while it represents a significant improvement, it may not be sufficient as a minimum code requirement.

Patrick proposed a more extensive change, aiming to balance the need for EV charger capacity with the urgency of not constraining housing supply in the coming years. He stressed the importance of avoiding delays in projects due to utility power supply issues or cost constraints. The committee discussed the implications of automatic load management systems, with Patrick advocating for definitions that align better with the exceptions in the code.

The conversation also included a detailed examination of a weighted cost chart, which aimed to analyze the financial implications of different EV charging requirements. Todd explained that the chart would help assess whether the proposed changes would effectively reduce costs compared to existing codes. The committee acknowledged the need for real data from developers to validate these cost models.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that both Todd and Patrick's proposals shared common goals but differed in their approaches. The committee agreed to allow both members to present their ideas further, with plans to publish the proposals for broader access and review.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing building codes to support EV infrastructure while balancing construction costs and housing supply. The next meeting is scheduled for a month later, where further discussions and evaluations of the proposals will take place.