The National Electrical Code (NEC) has officially approved the use of 14 AWG Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA) as a conductor for 10-amp branch circuits in its 2026 edition. This significant change marks a new phase in the acceptance of bimetallic wiring and presents fresh opportunities for builders, inspectors, and electricians in various construction sectors.
For decades, the minimum requirement for general-use branch circuits was set at 15 amps. This necessitated the use of either 14 AWG copper or 12 AWG CCA or aluminum. However, advancements in lighting efficiency, particularly through the widespread adoption of LED technology, have decreased the load on lighting circuits significantly. In response, the NEC has introduced 10-amp circuits tailored for dedicated lighting, allowing for smaller and more resource-efficient wiring solutions.
Implications for the Construction Industry
The inclusion of 14 AWG CCA wiring provides the performance and safety standards mandated by the NEC while also conserving copper, ultimately helping to stabilize material costs. For electricians, this regulatory change translates into the ability to offer more competitive installations without sacrificing quality or safety.
Builders and project managers can also benefit from this update, as the 10-amp lighting circuit not only represents a code change but also promotes a smarter design aligned with current energy-efficient lighting practices and sustainability goals. As various jurisdictions begin to implement the 2026 NEC in the upcoming years, Copperweld’s expanding CCA product line ensures that contractors will have compliant options readily available.
Copperweld’s Commitment to Innovation
Copperweld, headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee, is recognized as a global leader in bimetallic wire and cable. The company specializes in power and grounding conductors for building construction, power grids, utilities, communications, and transportation sectors. With over 110 years of metallurgical expertise and a focus on value-engineering, Copperweld’s products have revolutionized multiple industries.
The company prides itself on its commitment to American-made products, with sourcing and manufacturing facilities located in the heart of the United States. This dedication to quality and innovation, which has driven Copperweld for more than a century, continues to inspire its mission.
Copperweld’s Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA) Building Wire is specifically designed to meet the demands of modern residential, multifamily, and commercial construction. It is not only code-compliant and easy to install but also offers significant advantages such as stabilizing project costs, enhancing cycle times, reducing theft risks, and supporting sustainable building practices through lower copper usage and improved energy efficiency.
In conclusion, the NEC’s approval of 14 AWG CCA for 10-amp circuits represents a pivotal moment for the construction industry. Builders and electrical contractors are increasingly turning to Copperweld Building Wire as a smarter, more sustainable solution for their electrical wiring needs.
