How to Submit
DeadlineS
Submission deadline: June 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM PST
Submissions at a Glance
Submission Materials
*** NEW FOR 2026 COMPETITION ***
The state of California uses the system of measurement called “imperial units.” Thus, all energy metrics should be submitted in imperial units (kBTU). Be sure to double-check the system of measurement used for energy calculations before you submit your entry. If the energy simulation tool reports energy as kwh, you will need to convert the results into kBtu. Submissions should clearly indicate both the predicted site energy use intensity (pEUI) before renewable energy is included, and then indicate net site EUI including onsite renewable generation.
Required
Cover Title page - Number and label all pages after the cover page.
Page 1 Project Narrative
Page 2 Site Plan
Page 3A Floor Plan(s) - Building as a cultural center
Page 3B Floor Plan(s) - Building as an emergency operations center
Page 4 Perspective Drawing
Page 5 Illustrated Sections
Page 6 Mechanical System Summary
Page 7 Annual End Use Summary
Page 8 Monthly End Use Energy Consumption Bar Chart
Page 9 Hourly Load Shapes for Energy and Emissions
Page 10 Details of Renewable Energy Systems
Page 11 Storage Systems
Page 12 Decarbonization Strategies
Page 13 Climate Adaptation Assessment Matrix
Page 14 Equity Essay
Optional
Pages 15 - 25. Total Submission should not exceed 25 pages.
Supplemental Energy/Resilience/Decarbonization/Equity Information.
ENTRY FEES
Entry Fee for Architects, Engineers and Designers: $350
Entry Fee for Students and Recent Grads: $0
All registration and submission materials must be received by June 1, 2026 at 1:00pm PST.
Entry fees are nonrefundable.
SUBMISSION POLICIES
All submissions are final.
There is no limit to the number of entries that an individual or firm may submit; however, each must be submitted separately with separate payments, if required.
In addition to professional firms, entries from individuals or teams are allowed and encouraged. We recommend that entrants who are employed by another company review and comply with their employer’s policies in this area prior to submitting an entry. Any public announcements or references will be to the individual or design team and not to any individual’s professional affiliation.