Evolution of the 10-Ampere Branch Circuit

IAEI Article Explores How 14 AWG CCA Earned Its Place in the 2026 NEC

Peter Graser
January 6, 2026

After nearly a decade of technical study, testing, and collaboration across the electrical industry, 14 AWG Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA) has been officially added to the 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC) for use in 10-amp branch circuits.

The International Alliance of the Electrical Industry (IAEI) January/February 2026 issue features a detailed article by industry experts Chuck Mello and Copperweld’s Peter Graser, tracing how this change came to be — from the early energy-efficiency initiatives that inspired it to the extensive research that confirmed 14 AWG CCA’s safety and performance.

This addition to the NEC marks an important milestone for the electrical industry. It provides a new code-recognized conductor option designed for today’s energy-efficient lighting.

Read the full IAEI article to see how this change came to life — and how it supports the next generation of efficient, sustainable building design.
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