Advocacy Update, March 2019

Decarbonization and SB 1477

The conversation continues around decarbonization efforts such as SB 1477 – Stern. With $200m in funding over the next four years, this bill is a positive step in the right direction to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. SB 1477s intent is to reduce California’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by promoting heat pump technology for space heating and water heating in residential buildings. 

There are now four objectives of this legislation. 
1. Incentives to promote the use of heat pumps for space and water heating. These incentives are not subject to outdated energy efficiency regulations (three-prong test) and can actively encourage fuel switching, this is a massive step in the right direction.

2. Funds to develop new heat pump technologies. This will likely lead to more retrofit ready products such as 110volt heat pump water heaters.

3. Pilot programs for buildings damaged by wildfires. These pilot programs will provide incentives to help decarbonization efforts, such as converting to an all-electric, when rebuilding after wildfires. This will help fire survivors build a less impactful home when rebuilding. 

4. Establishing a decarbonization policy framework. Guiding principles for rules and procedures to accelerate the reduction of GHG Emissions. This includes being technology neutral, providing transparency, and encouraging simplicity to make the regulations easier to understand.

We are encouraged and supportive of these efforts and will keep you informed on changes as they occur.

Charley Cormany
Executive Director 

Advocacy Update, February 2019