Join us next Wednesday, April 24th to learn more about a proposed ordinance that would require climate-friendly all-electric new construction in Berkeley will. This is an opportunity to support this important step towards limiting Berkeley's reliance on fossil fuels.
DATE: Wednesday, April 24th
TIME: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
LOCATION: 1947 Center Street, Berkeley (basement multipurpose room)
RSVP!
The ordinance, introduced by Councilmember Kate Harrison, would phase out installation of polluting gas infrastructure when issuing permits for new buildings. It is an important next step to make our community safer and powered by clean energy.
All-electric buildings can save homeowners money by lowering utility bills. Modern, high-efficiency electric heating technologies can also cost less up-front than their gas counterparts — especially when installed during new construction — because there's no need to extend costly gas pipelines and infrastructure.
Building electrification is an essential strategy to curb climate and air pollution. Here in California, building emissions are second only to transportation as the leading source of greenhouse gas emissions. Berkeley has set ambitious emission reduction goals — but the city is 18 percent behind its 2020 target. Building electrification will play an important role in helping us meet these goals; In Berkeley, 23 percent of greenhouse gas emissions come from the building sector, a majority of which arise from the use of natural gas.
Powering local homes and buildings with clean, renewable energy will improve public health by eliminating a substantial source of indoor air pollution. Fossil fuel appliances release dangerous toxins, leading to air pollution levels in some homes that would be illegal if measured outside. A recent study found that gas stoves may be responsible for up to 12 percent of childhood asthma cases.
Electric infrastructure is powered by increasingly clean sources. Here in Berkeley, our electricity is 85% carbon free at a minimum. As a result, shifting to electric power in our buildings dramatically lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
Berkeley’s electrification ordinance is a sensible and achievable step toward achieving clean, healthy, and affordable homes for our community. Please join us on Wednesday, April 24th at 5:30 PM to make sure our community prioritizes clean energy homes.
Photo: Courtesy Anirvan via Flickr Creative Commons.