💻WSU C3 · MAC COMPATIBILITY

How to Run the Washington Energy Code Calculator on a Mac

Quick answer: No — the WSU C3 calculator is a Windows-only, macro-enabled Excel workbook (.xlsm), and it doesn't run on Excel for Mac or the web/mobile versions. wsec.ai runs the same Washington energy code calculation in any browser, including on a Mac or iPad.

Why the WSU C3 spreadsheet won't run on a Mac

The C3 is a macro-enabled .xlsm workbook built for Windows Excel. The Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macros that drive its calculations don't run reliably in Excel for Mac — WSU's own documentation marks it as unsupported on macOS. The web and mobile versions of Excel aren't supported either; they strip macro execution entirely.

You don't need Parallels, Boot Camp, or a borrowed PC

The usual workarounds — buying a Windows PC, spinning up a virtual machine (Parallels or VMware Fusion), or using Boot Camp on older Intel Macs — all mean installing and maintaining a full Windows environment just to fill out an energy code form. That's a significant time and cost investment for a task that should take an afternoon.

Run the calculation in your browser instead

wsec.ai performs the same 2021 WSEC-R compliance calculation — R406 energy credits, Total UA, glazing schedule — as a web app. It runs in Safari or Chrome on macOS, on an iPad, or on a Windows PC. No install, no macros, no Excel license required.

WSU C3 spreadsheetwsec.ai
Runs on Mac / iPadNo (Windows Excel only)Yes (any browser)
Install requiredDesktop Excel + macrosNone
R406 energy creditsYesYes
OutputExcel workbookWSEC-R compliance documentation

FAQ

Can I use the WSU C3 calculator on an iPad?

No — it requires desktop Windows Excel. wsec.ai runs in the iPad browser with no install.

Is there a Mac version of the WSU C3 spreadsheet?

No. WSU distributes a single Windows macro-enabled workbook. A web-based tool like wsec.ai is the practical Mac route.

Will a Mac-generated wsec.ai report work for my Washington permit?

wsec.ai produces 2021 WSEC-R compliance documentation that you submit to your local jurisdiction with your permit application.

Try the online C3 calculator

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Related guides:WSU C3 calculator problems · What is the WSEC?
Last updated: June 2026 · Source: 2021 WSEC-R WAC 51-11R