Events
Visit the event page to learn about upcoming decarbonization events.
For Immediate Release
July 22, 2022
Contact:
Robin Tung, Building Decarbonization Coalition
robin@buildingdecarb.org
July 22, 2022
Contact:
Robin Tung, Building Decarbonization Coalition
robin@buildingdecarb.org
California Governor Gavin Newsom sets a target of 3 million climate-ready homes and 6 million heat pumps by 2030
Sacramento, CA — In the midst of a climate-fueled heat wave that is gripping the nation, California Governor Gavin Newsom took action today to expand access to cooling in homes by setting a target of 3 million climate-ready and climate-friendly homes by 2030 and 7 million homes by 2035 – of which 50% or more will be low-income and environmental justice communities – and 6 million highly-efficient electric heat pumps.
“The heat wave gripping the nation this week is further proof that as California warms, all households need access to affordable and efficient cooling to stay safe. We applaud the Governor’s leadership in directing his agency to provide low-income households with heat pump cooling systems, and for establishing a healthy home goal,” said Jose Torres, California director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “Done in collaboration with the most affected communities, these holistic climate upgrades will protect California’s working families – especially our most vulnerable residents – from extreme weather, and will keep them healthy, safe, and resilient.”
The new targets for climate-resilient housing were announced as part of a letter to the California Air Resources Board, which focuses on the implementation and acceleration of California’s climate goals. The decarbonization of the state’s building sector will bring relief to Californians facing extreme heat and high energy costs this summer, help reduce indoor and outdoor pollution, transform the market for climate solutions, and spur increased domestic manufacturing and installation jobs. The new goals will also cut the climate pollution that is fueling hotter temperatures.
“This landmark directive signals California’s commitment to its climate goals and provides substantial benefits to households and communities struggling with energy, affordability, and extreme heat burdens. Critical to Governor Newsom’s action is his May budget revise, which will provide a down payment to accomplish these goals,” stated Panama Bartholomy, executive director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
The Building Decarbonization Coalition and its partners will continue to push for investments of at least $1.2 billion for healthy homes, $1 billion for community resiliency centers, and $500 million for school facility upgrades in the California budget, which will be finalized in August.
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“The heat wave gripping the nation this week is further proof that as California warms, all households need access to affordable and efficient cooling to stay safe. We applaud the Governor’s leadership in directing his agency to provide low-income households with heat pump cooling systems, and for establishing a healthy home goal,” said Jose Torres, California director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “Done in collaboration with the most affected communities, these holistic climate upgrades will protect California’s working families – especially our most vulnerable residents – from extreme weather, and will keep them healthy, safe, and resilient.”
The new targets for climate-resilient housing were announced as part of a letter to the California Air Resources Board, which focuses on the implementation and acceleration of California’s climate goals. The decarbonization of the state’s building sector will bring relief to Californians facing extreme heat and high energy costs this summer, help reduce indoor and outdoor pollution, transform the market for climate solutions, and spur increased domestic manufacturing and installation jobs. The new goals will also cut the climate pollution that is fueling hotter temperatures.
“This landmark directive signals California’s commitment to its climate goals and provides substantial benefits to households and communities struggling with energy, affordability, and extreme heat burdens. Critical to Governor Newsom’s action is his May budget revise, which will provide a down payment to accomplish these goals,” stated Panama Bartholomy, executive director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
The Building Decarbonization Coalition and its partners will continue to push for investments of at least $1.2 billion for healthy homes, $1 billion for community resiliency centers, and $500 million for school facility upgrades in the California budget, which will be finalized in August.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 3, 2022
Contact:
Neal Kwatra, Metropolitan Strategies, kwatraneal@gmail.com
William Thomas, Butler Associates, 646-213-1342, wthomas@butlerpr.com
Jessica Azulay, AGREE, 917-697-4472, jessica@agreenewyork.org
Maritza Silva-Ferrell, ALIGN, 646-866-4015, maritza@alignny.org
June 3, 2022
Contact:
Neal Kwatra, Metropolitan Strategies, kwatraneal@gmail.com
William Thomas, Butler Associates, 646-213-1342, wthomas@butlerpr.com
Jessica Azulay, AGREE, 917-697-4472, jessica@agreenewyork.org
Maritza Silva-Ferrell, ALIGN, 646-866-4015, maritza@alignny.org
Unions and Climate Advocates Applaud the New York State Senate and Assembly for passing the pioneering Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Bill
Neighborhood-Scale Building Decarbonization and Quality Union Jobs
Albany, NY -- The New York State Legislature today passed the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act (S9422, A10493). The landmark bill, passed unanimously in the state Senate and 138-5 in the Assembly, represents a victory for labor unions and climate advocates. The bill will preserve and add good union jobs that will decarbonize buildings at scale and remove barriers that were impeding the implementation of New York’s climate law.
The bill was also supported by consumer advocates and every New York utility. Labor, climate and environmental leaders are urging Governor Hochul to sign the bill as soon as possible to enable construction of neighborhood-scale “thermal energy networks” to help bring affordable, renewable heating and cooling to utility customers.
In response to passage of the bill today, unions, environmental leaders, and supporting organizations released the following statement:
By coming together to pass this first-in-the-nation thermal energy network and jobs bill, we have shown how quickly we can change policy to deliver both sustainable union jobs and advance climate solutions at scale. We thank the legislature for their leadership and for delivering this victory.
We call on Governor Hochul to act quickly and sign this bill into law. We look forward to working together to put New York’s skilled labor force and climate and clean energy expertise to work getting thermal energy networks in the ground and delivering renewable heating and cooling at a neighborhood scale. We are committed to continuing to work together to deliver on the environmental, equity, and just transition mandates in New York’s climate law, the CLCPA.
The above statement can be attributed to the following organizations:
United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters
Building Decarbonization Coalition
Alliance for a Green Economy
New York League of Conservation Voters
New York AFL-CIO
New York Building and Construction Trades
Utility Workers 1-2
ALIGN NY
Sierra Club
NYPIRG
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The bill was also supported by consumer advocates and every New York utility. Labor, climate and environmental leaders are urging Governor Hochul to sign the bill as soon as possible to enable construction of neighborhood-scale “thermal energy networks” to help bring affordable, renewable heating and cooling to utility customers.
In response to passage of the bill today, unions, environmental leaders, and supporting organizations released the following statement:
By coming together to pass this first-in-the-nation thermal energy network and jobs bill, we have shown how quickly we can change policy to deliver both sustainable union jobs and advance climate solutions at scale. We thank the legislature for their leadership and for delivering this victory.
We call on Governor Hochul to act quickly and sign this bill into law. We look forward to working together to put New York’s skilled labor force and climate and clean energy expertise to work getting thermal energy networks in the ground and delivering renewable heating and cooling at a neighborhood scale. We are committed to continuing to work together to deliver on the environmental, equity, and just transition mandates in New York’s climate law, the CLCPA.
The above statement can be attributed to the following organizations:
United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters
Building Decarbonization Coalition
Alliance for a Green Economy
New York League of Conservation Voters
New York AFL-CIO
New York Building and Construction Trades
Utility Workers 1-2
ALIGN NY
Sierra Club
NYPIRG
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2022
Contact:
Neal Kwatra, Metropolitan Strategies, kwatraneal@gmail.com
William Thomas, Butler Associates, 646-213-1342, wthomas@butlerpr.com
Jessica Azulay, AGREE, 917-697-4472, jessica@agreenewyork.org
June 2, 2022
Contact:
Neal Kwatra, Metropolitan Strategies, kwatraneal@gmail.com
William Thomas, Butler Associates, 646-213-1342, wthomas@butlerpr.com
Jessica Azulay, AGREE, 917-697-4472, jessica@agreenewyork.org
Thermal Energy Network Bill Gains Momentum With Unanimous Passage In State Senate
Labor and Environmentalists Unify to Push for Neighborhood-Scale Building Decarbonization and Good Jobs
In a 63-0 vote, the New York State Senate unanimously passed the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act (S9422, A10493) last night. Labor and environmental leaders are urging the New York Assembly to pass the bill today. The legislation will enable the construction of neighborhood-scale “thermal energy networks” to help bring affordable, renewable heating and cooling to utility customers. Labor standards in the bill will preserve and add good union jobs to decarbonize buildings at a scale that aligns with New York’s climate law.
Thermal energy networks are utility-scale projects that consist of pipes under the street, just like the utility gas system. Instead of carrying gas, the pipes in a thermal energy network carry water that moves heat from where it’s not needed to where it is needed in a neighborhood. Homes and businesses connect to this network with heat pumps, utilizing the thermal energy for comfortable heating and cooling. The water in the pipes stays within the needed temperature range by exchanging heat with geothermal boreholes and other sources, such as solar thermal, bodies of water, or waste heat from buildings, factories, and data centers.
“If New York is to achieve its clean energy goals in this decade and beyond, we must find and build on common ground,” said John Murphy, International Representative of the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters and a member of the Clean Energy Jobs Coalition of NY. “The proposed Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act creates a path forward to build an affordable, high efficiency renewable energy system that will provide a just transition for thousands of high skilled, middle class New Yorkers while achieving our climate objectives.”
“We are thrilled to come together with the labor movement around a vision for the next generation of heating and cooling infrastructure in New York,” said Jessica Azulay, Executive Director of Alliance for a Green Economy. “Thermal energy networks will revolutionize the way we heat and cool our communities. We urge the Assembly to pass the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act today for a collective solution to the climate crisis that will make renewable heating more accessible and affordable and create good union jobs.”
“To succeed in achieving the aggressive climate emissions reduction targets and equity mandates under New York’s Climate Law, swift and urgent implementation action is required by the legislature and the administration every year,” said Lisa Dix, New York Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “We need building decarbonization solutions at scale. Climate investments and benefits must flow directly into communities disproportionately impacted by climate change and workers must be uplifted by the clean energy economy. We have found one such solution, together, and urge the Assembly to act now and pass this bill today.”
“Communities of color and low-income have been living for generations with the disproportionate burden of poor housing quality and toxic air. NOx and PM2.5 emissions from burning fossil fuels in buildings leads to respiratory and cardiovascular illness, cancers, and more,” said Sonal Jessel, Director of Policy at WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “Not only are communities of color and low-income breathing in poison, but they have the most utility debt and have become the sacrifice zones for the climate crisis. Our communities need access to affordable options to heat and cool our homes without fossil fuels, and the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act will help ensure utilities advance equitable and affordable building electrification and design these networks to reduce air pollution in overburdened communities.”
“As New York State implements the CLCPA (Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act), the most ambitious climate law in the country, we need labor and climate groups working together toward a just transition. "The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act" (S9422) is the result of that collective action. It presents an opportunity to effectively decarbonize our buildings at the scale necessary to meet our climate mandates, and create middle class career jobs for low-income communities and communities of color hit first and worst by the climate crisis.” said Maritza Silva-Farrell, Executive Director of ALIGN NY.
“New York needs to address buildings, our largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, to achieve our bold climate goals,” said Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “We need to take steps forward to decarbonize our buildings. This creative opportunity moves toward a renewable energy system that reduces emissions and pollution, protects our climate, and supports a fair transition for residents facing the financial burden of heating and cooling costs while supporting good-paying jobs. We urge the Assembly to pass the bill today."
####
Thermal energy networks are utility-scale projects that consist of pipes under the street, just like the utility gas system. Instead of carrying gas, the pipes in a thermal energy network carry water that moves heat from where it’s not needed to where it is needed in a neighborhood. Homes and businesses connect to this network with heat pumps, utilizing the thermal energy for comfortable heating and cooling. The water in the pipes stays within the needed temperature range by exchanging heat with geothermal boreholes and other sources, such as solar thermal, bodies of water, or waste heat from buildings, factories, and data centers.
“If New York is to achieve its clean energy goals in this decade and beyond, we must find and build on common ground,” said John Murphy, International Representative of the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters and a member of the Clean Energy Jobs Coalition of NY. “The proposed Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act creates a path forward to build an affordable, high efficiency renewable energy system that will provide a just transition for thousands of high skilled, middle class New Yorkers while achieving our climate objectives.”
“We are thrilled to come together with the labor movement around a vision for the next generation of heating and cooling infrastructure in New York,” said Jessica Azulay, Executive Director of Alliance for a Green Economy. “Thermal energy networks will revolutionize the way we heat and cool our communities. We urge the Assembly to pass the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act today for a collective solution to the climate crisis that will make renewable heating more accessible and affordable and create good union jobs.”
“To succeed in achieving the aggressive climate emissions reduction targets and equity mandates under New York’s Climate Law, swift and urgent implementation action is required by the legislature and the administration every year,” said Lisa Dix, New York Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “We need building decarbonization solutions at scale. Climate investments and benefits must flow directly into communities disproportionately impacted by climate change and workers must be uplifted by the clean energy economy. We have found one such solution, together, and urge the Assembly to act now and pass this bill today.”
“Communities of color and low-income have been living for generations with the disproportionate burden of poor housing quality and toxic air. NOx and PM2.5 emissions from burning fossil fuels in buildings leads to respiratory and cardiovascular illness, cancers, and more,” said Sonal Jessel, Director of Policy at WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “Not only are communities of color and low-income breathing in poison, but they have the most utility debt and have become the sacrifice zones for the climate crisis. Our communities need access to affordable options to heat and cool our homes without fossil fuels, and the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act will help ensure utilities advance equitable and affordable building electrification and design these networks to reduce air pollution in overburdened communities.”
“As New York State implements the CLCPA (Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act), the most ambitious climate law in the country, we need labor and climate groups working together toward a just transition. "The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act" (S9422) is the result of that collective action. It presents an opportunity to effectively decarbonize our buildings at the scale necessary to meet our climate mandates, and create middle class career jobs for low-income communities and communities of color hit first and worst by the climate crisis.” said Maritza Silva-Farrell, Executive Director of ALIGN NY.
“New York needs to address buildings, our largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, to achieve our bold climate goals,” said Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “We need to take steps forward to decarbonize our buildings. This creative opportunity moves toward a renewable energy system that reduces emissions and pollution, protects our climate, and supports a fair transition for residents facing the financial burden of heating and cooling costs while supporting good-paying jobs. We urge the Assembly to pass the bill today."
####
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2022
Contact:
Neal Kwatra, kwatraneal@gmail.com
Jessica Azulay, 917-697-4472, jessica@agreenewyork.org
May 26, 2022
Contact:
Neal Kwatra, kwatraneal@gmail.com
Jessica Azulay, 917-697-4472, jessica@agreenewyork.org
Labor and Environmentalists Unify to Push for Neighborhood-Scale Building Decarbonization and Good Job
Labor and environmental leaders have come together to support the introduction of the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act (S9422) and are urging New York legislators to pass the bill before the legislative session ends on June 2. The new legislation will enable the construction of neighborhood-scale “thermal energy networks” to help bring affordable, renewable heating and cooling to utility customers. Labor standards in the bill will preserve and add good union jobs to decarbonize buildings at a scale that aligns with New York’s climate law.
“If New York is to achieve its clean energy goals in this decade and beyond, we must find and build on common ground,” said John Murphy, International Representative of the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters and a member of the Clean Energy Jobs Coalition of NY. “The proposed Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act creates a path forward to build an affordable, high efficiency renewable energy system that will provide a just transition for thousands of high skilled, middle class New Yorkers while achieving our climate objectives.”
Thermal energy networks are utility-scale projects that consist of pipes under the street, just like the utility gas system. Instead of carrying gas, the pipes in a thermal energy network carry water that moves heat from where it’s not needed to where it is needed in a neighborhood. Homes and businesses connect to this network with heat pumps, utilizing the thermal energy for comfortable heating and cooling. The water in the pipes stays within the needed temperature range by exchanging heat with geothermal boreholes and other sources, such as solar thermal, bodies of water, or waste heat from buildings, factories, and data centers.
“We are thrilled to come together with the labor movement around a vision for the next generation of heating and cooling infrastructure in New York,” said Jessica Azulay, Executive Director of Alliance for a Green Economy. “Thermal energy networks will revolutionize the way we heat and cool our communities. With the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act, we are urging a collective solution to the climate crisis that will make renewable heating more accessible and affordable and create good union jobs.”
National Grid successfully piloted a small geothermal network project on Long Island in 2017. Since that pilot, utilities have been proposing additional pilots in their rate cases before the Public Service Commission, but have been prevented from moving them forward due to legal barriers. The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act removes legal barriers and begins a regulatory process that will start with utility pilots of thermal energy networks in each utility territory and will ultimately develop the regulations governing utility involvement in these systems.
Buildings are New York state's largest source of climate emissions, with 7 million households and over 380,000 commercial, institutional, and state buildings that need to be fully decarbonized. “To succeed in achieving the aggressive climate emissions reduction targets and equity mandates under New York’s Climate Law, swift and urgent implementation action is required by the legislature and the administration every year,” said Lisa Dix, New York Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “We need building decarbonization solutions at scale. Climate investments and benefits must flow directly into communities disproportionately impacted by climate change and workers must be uplifted by the clean energy economy. We have found one such solution, together, and urge the legislature to act now and pass this bill this session.”
Geothermal heating and cooling with ground source heat pumps is highly efficient and reduces monthly energy costs compared to other forms of heating or cooling. However, the high up-front costs of installing ground loops have made geothermal heat inaccessible for many New Yorkers. Utility thermal energy networks will spread the up-front costs of this infrastructure over many customers and over a long period of time, enabling a more affordable, just, and rapid transition to renewable heat.
“Communities of color and low-income have been living for generations with the disproportionate burden of poor housing quality and toxic air. NOx and PM2.5 emissions from burning fossil fuels in buildings leads to respiratory and cardiovascular illness, cancers, and more,” said Sonal Jessel, Director of Policy at WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “Not only are communities of color and low-income breathing in poison, but they have the most utility debt and have become the sacrifice zones for the climate crisis. Our communities need access to affordable options to heat and cool our homes without fossil fuels, and the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act will help ensure utilities advance equitable and affordable building electrification and design these networks to reduce air pollution in overburdened communities.”
“As New York State implements the CLCPA (Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act), the most ambitious climate law in the country, we need labor and climate groups working together toward a just transition. "The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act" (S9422) is the result of that collective action. It presents an opportunity to effectively decarbonize our buildings at the scale necessary to meet our climate mandates, and create middle class career jobs for low-income communities and communities of color hit first and worst by the climate crisis.”said Maritza Silva-Farrell, Executive Director of ALIGN NY.
“New York needs to address buildings, our largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, to achieve our bold climate goals,” said Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “We need to take steps forward to decarbonize our buildings. This creative opportunity moves toward a renewable energy system that reduces emissions and pollution, protects our climate, and supports a fair transition for residents facing the financial burden of heating and cooling costs while supporting good-paying jobs. We urge the legislature to pass the bill this session."
####
Resources about Thermal Energy Networks:
● Thermal Energy Networks: Decarbonizing Buildings At Utility Scale (basic facts)
● Clean Energy: Geothermal Energy Exchange (Mechanical Contractors Association of America)
● ASHRAE/NYSERDA Community Heat Pump Systems Webinar Series
● Tonight! 7pm on Thursday, May 26th Renewable Heat Now and HeatSmart Tompkins will be hosting a Community Geothermal Heat Pump Webinar featuring a presentation by Zeyneb Magavi and Audrey Schulman from HEET. Register here.
“If New York is to achieve its clean energy goals in this decade and beyond, we must find and build on common ground,” said John Murphy, International Representative of the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinkler Fitters and a member of the Clean Energy Jobs Coalition of NY. “The proposed Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act creates a path forward to build an affordable, high efficiency renewable energy system that will provide a just transition for thousands of high skilled, middle class New Yorkers while achieving our climate objectives.”
Thermal energy networks are utility-scale projects that consist of pipes under the street, just like the utility gas system. Instead of carrying gas, the pipes in a thermal energy network carry water that moves heat from where it’s not needed to where it is needed in a neighborhood. Homes and businesses connect to this network with heat pumps, utilizing the thermal energy for comfortable heating and cooling. The water in the pipes stays within the needed temperature range by exchanging heat with geothermal boreholes and other sources, such as solar thermal, bodies of water, or waste heat from buildings, factories, and data centers.
“We are thrilled to come together with the labor movement around a vision for the next generation of heating and cooling infrastructure in New York,” said Jessica Azulay, Executive Director of Alliance for a Green Economy. “Thermal energy networks will revolutionize the way we heat and cool our communities. With the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act, we are urging a collective solution to the climate crisis that will make renewable heating more accessible and affordable and create good union jobs.”
National Grid successfully piloted a small geothermal network project on Long Island in 2017. Since that pilot, utilities have been proposing additional pilots in their rate cases before the Public Service Commission, but have been prevented from moving them forward due to legal barriers. The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act removes legal barriers and begins a regulatory process that will start with utility pilots of thermal energy networks in each utility territory and will ultimately develop the regulations governing utility involvement in these systems.
Buildings are New York state's largest source of climate emissions, with 7 million households and over 380,000 commercial, institutional, and state buildings that need to be fully decarbonized. “To succeed in achieving the aggressive climate emissions reduction targets and equity mandates under New York’s Climate Law, swift and urgent implementation action is required by the legislature and the administration every year,” said Lisa Dix, New York Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “We need building decarbonization solutions at scale. Climate investments and benefits must flow directly into communities disproportionately impacted by climate change and workers must be uplifted by the clean energy economy. We have found one such solution, together, and urge the legislature to act now and pass this bill this session.”
Geothermal heating and cooling with ground source heat pumps is highly efficient and reduces monthly energy costs compared to other forms of heating or cooling. However, the high up-front costs of installing ground loops have made geothermal heat inaccessible for many New Yorkers. Utility thermal energy networks will spread the up-front costs of this infrastructure over many customers and over a long period of time, enabling a more affordable, just, and rapid transition to renewable heat.
“Communities of color and low-income have been living for generations with the disproportionate burden of poor housing quality and toxic air. NOx and PM2.5 emissions from burning fossil fuels in buildings leads to respiratory and cardiovascular illness, cancers, and more,” said Sonal Jessel, Director of Policy at WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “Not only are communities of color and low-income breathing in poison, but they have the most utility debt and have become the sacrifice zones for the climate crisis. Our communities need access to affordable options to heat and cool our homes without fossil fuels, and the Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act will help ensure utilities advance equitable and affordable building electrification and design these networks to reduce air pollution in overburdened communities.”
“As New York State implements the CLCPA (Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act), the most ambitious climate law in the country, we need labor and climate groups working together toward a just transition. "The Utility Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act" (S9422) is the result of that collective action. It presents an opportunity to effectively decarbonize our buildings at the scale necessary to meet our climate mandates, and create middle class career jobs for low-income communities and communities of color hit first and worst by the climate crisis.”said Maritza Silva-Farrell, Executive Director of ALIGN NY.
“New York needs to address buildings, our largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, to achieve our bold climate goals,” said Julie Tighe, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “We need to take steps forward to decarbonize our buildings. This creative opportunity moves toward a renewable energy system that reduces emissions and pollution, protects our climate, and supports a fair transition for residents facing the financial burden of heating and cooling costs while supporting good-paying jobs. We urge the legislature to pass the bill this session."
####
Resources about Thermal Energy Networks:
● Thermal Energy Networks: Decarbonizing Buildings At Utility Scale (basic facts)
● Clean Energy: Geothermal Energy Exchange (Mechanical Contractors Association of America)
● ASHRAE/NYSERDA Community Heat Pump Systems Webinar Series
● Tonight! 7pm on Thursday, May 26th Renewable Heat Now and HeatSmart Tompkins will be hosting a Community Geothermal Heat Pump Webinar featuring a presentation by Zeyneb Magavi and Audrey Schulman from HEET. Register here.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2022
May 13, 2022
Advocates welcome May budget revisions with funding to combat extreme heat and relieve utility debt; Identify need for more funding for community resilience centers
With a historic budget surplus and temperatures rising, California proposes $1 billion in funding to bring high-efficiency heat pumps to low-income households and $170 million for community resilience centers
Sacramento, Calif.— As California braces for another summer of extreme heat and wildfires, Governor Newsom announced an updated budget framework today that heeds the call from environmental justice and climate advocates to boost resilience in the face of extreme heat by investing in household and community-level cooling solutions.
The May budget revision includes close to $1 billion in funding to upgrade low-income households with highly efficient electric heat pumps, which provide affordable cooling, along with other home upgrades to lower energy bills and cut climate pollution. The budget also includes $170 million in funding to create community resilience centers at libraries, schools, and other trusted community spaces – a key investment that will provide community-level access to cooling, clean air, and backup power during heat waves, wildfires, and other climate disasters. Advocates called the community resilience funding a good first step, but called for Governor Newsom and the Legislature to meet the scale of the need by increasing funding to $1 billion.
“Every household and community in California should have access to cooling, clean air, and backup power, and we’re grateful to the Governor for his focus on whole home upgrades to bring climate and health relief to those who need it,” said Amee Raval, Policy & Research Director at Asian Pacific Environmental Network. “At the same time, we’ve seen first hand how transformative resilience centers can be in meeting the needs of working-class communities, and we look forward to working with lawmakers to meet the scale of the need with additional funding.”
An investigation by the LA Times last year found that California chronically undercounts the death toll from extreme heat. Between 2010 and 2019, LAT found that 3,900 Californians died from heat — six times the official count. Lack of access to cooling is a top risk factor for heat-related death and illness – and according to research from USC, in parts of California, poverty is a better predictor for lack of cooling than climate zone.
“We applaud the Governor’s leadership in allocating funds to provide low-income households with heat pump cooling systems” said Jose Torres, California director at the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “This groundbreaking investment for heat pumps will not only equip Californians with affordable and energy efficient heating and cooling, but it also helps us cut the fossil fuel pollution that is driving the climate crisis.”
Earlier this year, a series of reports from the California Legislative Analyst found that under a moderate emissions scenario, deaths from extreme heat in coming years could equal the current death rate from automobile accidents – a stunning 9 deaths per 100,000 people in California.
“The health risks from extreme heat, drought and other climate impacts are not felt equally across California,” noted Veronica Garibay, Co-Founder and Co-Director of Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability. “Low income Californians and communities of color are significantly less likely to have access to the day-to-day and emergency services such as cooling, power, and water they need to stay safe during extreme climate events. This suite of legislative and budget priorities are an important first step in ensuring providing frontline communities with climate resilience solutions they urgently need.”
###
The May budget revision includes close to $1 billion in funding to upgrade low-income households with highly efficient electric heat pumps, which provide affordable cooling, along with other home upgrades to lower energy bills and cut climate pollution. The budget also includes $170 million in funding to create community resilience centers at libraries, schools, and other trusted community spaces – a key investment that will provide community-level access to cooling, clean air, and backup power during heat waves, wildfires, and other climate disasters. Advocates called the community resilience funding a good first step, but called for Governor Newsom and the Legislature to meet the scale of the need by increasing funding to $1 billion.
“Every household and community in California should have access to cooling, clean air, and backup power, and we’re grateful to the Governor for his focus on whole home upgrades to bring climate and health relief to those who need it,” said Amee Raval, Policy & Research Director at Asian Pacific Environmental Network. “At the same time, we’ve seen first hand how transformative resilience centers can be in meeting the needs of working-class communities, and we look forward to working with lawmakers to meet the scale of the need with additional funding.”
An investigation by the LA Times last year found that California chronically undercounts the death toll from extreme heat. Between 2010 and 2019, LAT found that 3,900 Californians died from heat — six times the official count. Lack of access to cooling is a top risk factor for heat-related death and illness – and according to research from USC, in parts of California, poverty is a better predictor for lack of cooling than climate zone.
“We applaud the Governor’s leadership in allocating funds to provide low-income households with heat pump cooling systems” said Jose Torres, California director at the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “This groundbreaking investment for heat pumps will not only equip Californians with affordable and energy efficient heating and cooling, but it also helps us cut the fossil fuel pollution that is driving the climate crisis.”
Earlier this year, a series of reports from the California Legislative Analyst found that under a moderate emissions scenario, deaths from extreme heat in coming years could equal the current death rate from automobile accidents – a stunning 9 deaths per 100,000 people in California.
“The health risks from extreme heat, drought and other climate impacts are not felt equally across California,” noted Veronica Garibay, Co-Founder and Co-Director of Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability. “Low income Californians and communities of color are significantly less likely to have access to the day-to-day and emergency services such as cooling, power, and water they need to stay safe during extreme climate events. This suite of legislative and budget priorities are an important first step in ensuring providing frontline communities with climate resilience solutions they urgently need.”
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2022
MEDIA CONTACT: Allison MacMunn
allison@sunstonestrategies.org, 312.622.4004
January 10, 2022
MEDIA CONTACT: Allison MacMunn
allison@sunstonestrategies.org, 312.622.4004
Gov. Newsom proposes landmark investment in healthy electric homes to cut climate pollution, protect public from extreme heat event
Climate and environmental justice advocates applaud close to $1 billion in funding for electric heating and cooling upgrades for low-income communities, call for $1 billion in additional funding for community resilience centers to further protect public health during extreme weather, extreme heat events.
Sacramento, Calif.--California programs aimed at cutting climate pollution from homes and increasing resilience in the face of extreme heat would receive nearly $1 billion in funding under a budget proposal put forth by the Newsom Administration. Climate and environmental justice advocates applaud this landmark investment, which aims to protect public health by providing new funding for clean cooling in low-income homes through the installation of all-electric heat pumps while cutting the pollution that’s driving this crisis.
In addition to protecting residents from extreme heat, this proposed investment in clean cooling for low-income homes would kickstart a statewide equitable transition to pollution-free buildings. The adoption of all-electric heat pumps - which provide both cooling and heating and can run on 100% renewable electricity - is a necessary step to reduce climate pollution from buildings, with the aim to slow the growth of climate-fueled, life-threatening extreme heat events.
“The reality is that in a hotter California, access to cooling in homes is a survival necessity, and we applaud the budget’s focus on equipping low-income residents with clean electric heat pump cooling systems. But just like we need household-level resilience solutions, we also need community-level investments to support the lives and health of those most impacted by climate change. We’re pleased to see investments sustained for community resilience centers, and are calling for significant additional funding for this lifesaving service,” said Jose Torres, California director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
Advocates celebrated the climate funding proposed, but called for additional funding for community resilience centers sought by a coalition of environmental and environmental justice groups — a critical need in the administration’s proposed efforts to expand lifesaving access to cooling in the face of climate-driven extreme heat events.
To help address the convergence of climate, economic, and public health crises that California communities of color are facing, advocates have pushed for an additional $1 billion in funding for community resilience centers: trusted public spaces where community members can access cooling, backup power, clean energy, and services. The Governor’s proposal sustains the $25 million allocated for resilience centers from the climate package announced on September 23, 2021 — and advocates call for additional funding for this urgent need to serve broader communities in the face of rapidly escalating climate impacts. Advocates were also heartened to see that the Governor is considering cooling in schools in heat-vulnerable communities.
“Today we celebrate this landmark investment in climate-resilience for low-income households, but we see this as a first step. We must do more to protect Californians - especially those most vulnerable - from deadly extreme heat events. There is an urgent need to provide community support and public health protection through additional funding for community resilience centers across our state, and we look forward to working with the Governor and legislators to map a path forward to expand this program’s reach,” said Amee Raval, policy and research director at the Asian Pacific Environmental Network.
Research shows that low-income communities are especially vulnerable to heat-related health impacts, as they are less likely to have access to cooling at home. To maximize the lifesaving impact of California’s extreme heat programs, advocates say that it will be essential that low-income communities receive the bulk of the $1 billion in funding for home upgrades proposed in Governor Newsom’s budget. Targeting home upgrade investments to communities of color and low-income communities can also move the needle on cleaning up the disproportionately hazardous air quality these communities face, as replacing gas appliances with electric alternatives improves both indoor and outdoor air quality.
“In the Los Angeles area alone, a staggering 1 million households lack access to air conditioning,” said Merrian Borgeson, a senior advocate with NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). “In the hotter temperatures fueled by climate change, that is a public health crisis. We need to target California’s investments in clean cooling to the communities where the need is greatest — the communities of color and low-income communities that are least likely to have access to cooling, and that are most vulnerable to the health consequences of extreme heat.”
A Los Angeles Times investigation last year found that the risk of heat hospitalizations and deaths in California has risen dramatically in recent years with climate change — and that the true number of heat related deaths far exceeds official state numbers. Over the course of a decade, extreme heat caused 3,900 deaths in California — a number six times higher than the official state count. The investigation also found that heat-related hospitalizations have been on the rise in parts of California for at least 15 years, and that state leaders have ignored warnings from state agencies that heat events were becoming more dangerous.
“More aggressive investment in community resilience centers could do so much to further safety, health and resilience. Just imagine what more dollars could do if leveraged with proposed investments in community health workers, public health infrastructure, small business, increasing access to ZEVs and EV infrastructure, and community-driven climate resilience planning. Additionally, the much needed investment in equitable building decarbonization is an important step in making sure all Californians are safe and healthy in their homes - a reality out of reach for so many people living in homes without cooling of any kind in the parts of the state that are hot and getting hotter. We look forward to working with the administration and legislature to ensure that aggressive investments and policies ensure that all Californians live in safe and resilient homes,” said Veronica Garibay-Gonzalez, co-executive director of the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability.
Environmental justice and environmental groups will continue to push for $1 billion in funding for community resilience centers as the Governor’s budget moves through the legislative process in coming months.
In addition to protecting residents from extreme heat, this proposed investment in clean cooling for low-income homes would kickstart a statewide equitable transition to pollution-free buildings. The adoption of all-electric heat pumps - which provide both cooling and heating and can run on 100% renewable electricity - is a necessary step to reduce climate pollution from buildings, with the aim to slow the growth of climate-fueled, life-threatening extreme heat events.
“The reality is that in a hotter California, access to cooling in homes is a survival necessity, and we applaud the budget’s focus on equipping low-income residents with clean electric heat pump cooling systems. But just like we need household-level resilience solutions, we also need community-level investments to support the lives and health of those most impacted by climate change. We’re pleased to see investments sustained for community resilience centers, and are calling for significant additional funding for this lifesaving service,” said Jose Torres, California director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
Advocates celebrated the climate funding proposed, but called for additional funding for community resilience centers sought by a coalition of environmental and environmental justice groups — a critical need in the administration’s proposed efforts to expand lifesaving access to cooling in the face of climate-driven extreme heat events.
To help address the convergence of climate, economic, and public health crises that California communities of color are facing, advocates have pushed for an additional $1 billion in funding for community resilience centers: trusted public spaces where community members can access cooling, backup power, clean energy, and services. The Governor’s proposal sustains the $25 million allocated for resilience centers from the climate package announced on September 23, 2021 — and advocates call for additional funding for this urgent need to serve broader communities in the face of rapidly escalating climate impacts. Advocates were also heartened to see that the Governor is considering cooling in schools in heat-vulnerable communities.
“Today we celebrate this landmark investment in climate-resilience for low-income households, but we see this as a first step. We must do more to protect Californians - especially those most vulnerable - from deadly extreme heat events. There is an urgent need to provide community support and public health protection through additional funding for community resilience centers across our state, and we look forward to working with the Governor and legislators to map a path forward to expand this program’s reach,” said Amee Raval, policy and research director at the Asian Pacific Environmental Network.
Research shows that low-income communities are especially vulnerable to heat-related health impacts, as they are less likely to have access to cooling at home. To maximize the lifesaving impact of California’s extreme heat programs, advocates say that it will be essential that low-income communities receive the bulk of the $1 billion in funding for home upgrades proposed in Governor Newsom’s budget. Targeting home upgrade investments to communities of color and low-income communities can also move the needle on cleaning up the disproportionately hazardous air quality these communities face, as replacing gas appliances with electric alternatives improves both indoor and outdoor air quality.
“In the Los Angeles area alone, a staggering 1 million households lack access to air conditioning,” said Merrian Borgeson, a senior advocate with NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). “In the hotter temperatures fueled by climate change, that is a public health crisis. We need to target California’s investments in clean cooling to the communities where the need is greatest — the communities of color and low-income communities that are least likely to have access to cooling, and that are most vulnerable to the health consequences of extreme heat.”
A Los Angeles Times investigation last year found that the risk of heat hospitalizations and deaths in California has risen dramatically in recent years with climate change — and that the true number of heat related deaths far exceeds official state numbers. Over the course of a decade, extreme heat caused 3,900 deaths in California — a number six times higher than the official state count. The investigation also found that heat-related hospitalizations have been on the rise in parts of California for at least 15 years, and that state leaders have ignored warnings from state agencies that heat events were becoming more dangerous.
“More aggressive investment in community resilience centers could do so much to further safety, health and resilience. Just imagine what more dollars could do if leveraged with proposed investments in community health workers, public health infrastructure, small business, increasing access to ZEVs and EV infrastructure, and community-driven climate resilience planning. Additionally, the much needed investment in equitable building decarbonization is an important step in making sure all Californians are safe and healthy in their homes - a reality out of reach for so many people living in homes without cooling of any kind in the parts of the state that are hot and getting hotter. We look forward to working with the administration and legislature to ensure that aggressive investments and policies ensure that all Californians live in safe and resilient homes,” said Veronica Garibay-Gonzalez, co-executive director of the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability.
Environmental justice and environmental groups will continue to push for $1 billion in funding for community resilience centers as the Governor’s budget moves through the legislative process in coming months.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 5, 2022
Statement can be attributed to Lisa Dix - Director, Building Decarbonization Coalition (New York):
"The Building Decarbonization Coalition is very hopeful about the critically important benchmarks the Governor outlined in her address. We applaud the aggressive commitments in two million all-electric, decarbonized homes by 2030, new investments in decarbonized affordable housing and a first in the nation program to decarbonize and electrify hundreds of schools statewide. These commitments are vital first steps in our road to creating thousands of high quality jobs decarbonizing all public, commercial, residential buildings in the State of New York. We look forward to working with the Governor to secure concrete investments from the State to ensure success."
January 5, 2022
Statement can be attributed to Lisa Dix - Director, Building Decarbonization Coalition (New York):
"The Building Decarbonization Coalition is very hopeful about the critically important benchmarks the Governor outlined in her address. We applaud the aggressive commitments in two million all-electric, decarbonized homes by 2030, new investments in decarbonized affordable housing and a first in the nation program to decarbonize and electrify hundreds of schools statewide. These commitments are vital first steps in our road to creating thousands of high quality jobs decarbonizing all public, commercial, residential buildings in the State of New York. We look forward to working with the Governor to secure concrete investments from the State to ensure success."
Building Decarbonization Coalition and Partners Launch "The Switch is On", a Campaign Supporting Widespread Home Electrification In California
New program features incentives, live advisors, vetted contractors, ambassadors and more
December 16, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
Today, the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC) and its partners launched the “Switch Is On“ campaign to help Californians switch from gas-powered to all-electric appliances. This campaign is the first of its kind in California, and hopes to serve as a template for similar programs across the nation. An all-electric home reduces health risks, contributes to a more resilient energy system, supports the state’s decarbonization goals, and in many cases can save money for homeowners.
“The only way California -- and the world at large -- will meet its climate goals will be to electrify our homes and businesses,” said Panama Bartholomy, executive director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “Modern electric appliances are cleaner, more efficient, and simply better than gas-powered alternatives. By sharing knowledge with everyday Americans and guiding them through the process of electrifying their homes, this campaign will catalyze the transformation to a cleaner, safer energy future.”
In addition to promoting regional and statewide incentives for electrification, the “Switch Is On“ campaign will educate, inspire, and support Californians who want to join the movement to electrify their homes. People can visit Switchison.org to speak one-on-one with home electrification advisors, find vetted contractors, get information on incentives and rebates, and find additional resources about home electrification.
The campaign’s statewide launch comes after a 2020 pilot program promoting electrification in the Bay Area and two years of market research. Through creative media, a grassroots ambassador program and a robust website, the campaign educates people about the value of swapping out gas-powered water heaters, dryers, cooktops and furnaces for electric alternatives, and provides information on a variety of incentives to support the switch. The campaign also educates homeowners about clean energy initiatives such as energy efficiency and weatherization, and related technologies like home solar and battery storage.
"The need to electrify everything is one of the most important climate narratives of our lifetime, and not enough people are talking about it," said Saul Griffith, co-founder of Rewiring America and author of Electrify!. "The Switch Is On campaign is a needed, timely and critical effort that will educate Californians about how they can electrify their lives with technology that already exists, and save money on their bills without sacrificing their lifestyles. It turns out that we can all do our part to address climate change by improving our personal infrastructure. We are excited to help the Building Decarbonization Coalition build this movement, and to promote the campaign’s success.”
“I couldn't be happier living in a decarbonized home,” said Ann Edminster of Petaluma. “The Switch Is On campaign will help Californians understand the benefits of swapping out their gas appliances for electric ones that are better for their health, convenience, and the environment. I have no hesitation recommending electrification to all my friends, neighbors, and family.”
The campaign is supported by TECH Clean California, a statewide initiative under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), designed to accelerate the adoption of clean space and water heating technology by providing incentives and training to support contractors electrifying homes. Additional campaign partners include Bay Area Air Quality Management District, the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN), East Bay Community Energy, Peninsula Clean Energy, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), City of Santa Monica, City of San Jose, Silicon Valley Clean Energy, Central Coast Community Energy, Marin Clean Energy, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), and the Tri-Country Regional Energy Network (3C-REN).
The Switch Is On campaign can be found at www.switchison.org. All Californians — including homeowners, renters and contractors — are encouraged to go to the website to learn more and get support in electrifying their homes. Those who have already begun their electrification journey can join the campaign’s ambassador program here.
About The Building Decarbonization Coalition
Launched in 2018, the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC) forges public-private partnerships among government authorities, utilities, manufacturers, builders and other vital sector stakeholders. These diverse and dynamic partnerships drive the development of clean energy powered, zero-emission homes, commercial Buildings and communities.
Today, the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC) and its partners launched the “Switch Is On“ campaign to help Californians switch from gas-powered to all-electric appliances. This campaign is the first of its kind in California, and hopes to serve as a template for similar programs across the nation. An all-electric home reduces health risks, contributes to a more resilient energy system, supports the state’s decarbonization goals, and in many cases can save money for homeowners.
“The only way California -- and the world at large -- will meet its climate goals will be to electrify our homes and businesses,” said Panama Bartholomy, executive director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition. “Modern electric appliances are cleaner, more efficient, and simply better than gas-powered alternatives. By sharing knowledge with everyday Americans and guiding them through the process of electrifying their homes, this campaign will catalyze the transformation to a cleaner, safer energy future.”
In addition to promoting regional and statewide incentives for electrification, the “Switch Is On“ campaign will educate, inspire, and support Californians who want to join the movement to electrify their homes. People can visit Switchison.org to speak one-on-one with home electrification advisors, find vetted contractors, get information on incentives and rebates, and find additional resources about home electrification.
The campaign’s statewide launch comes after a 2020 pilot program promoting electrification in the Bay Area and two years of market research. Through creative media, a grassroots ambassador program and a robust website, the campaign educates people about the value of swapping out gas-powered water heaters, dryers, cooktops and furnaces for electric alternatives, and provides information on a variety of incentives to support the switch. The campaign also educates homeowners about clean energy initiatives such as energy efficiency and weatherization, and related technologies like home solar and battery storage.
"The need to electrify everything is one of the most important climate narratives of our lifetime, and not enough people are talking about it," said Saul Griffith, co-founder of Rewiring America and author of Electrify!. "The Switch Is On campaign is a needed, timely and critical effort that will educate Californians about how they can electrify their lives with technology that already exists, and save money on their bills without sacrificing their lifestyles. It turns out that we can all do our part to address climate change by improving our personal infrastructure. We are excited to help the Building Decarbonization Coalition build this movement, and to promote the campaign’s success.”
“I couldn't be happier living in a decarbonized home,” said Ann Edminster of Petaluma. “The Switch Is On campaign will help Californians understand the benefits of swapping out their gas appliances for electric ones that are better for their health, convenience, and the environment. I have no hesitation recommending electrification to all my friends, neighbors, and family.”
The campaign is supported by TECH Clean California, a statewide initiative under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), designed to accelerate the adoption of clean space and water heating technology by providing incentives and training to support contractors electrifying homes. Additional campaign partners include Bay Area Air Quality Management District, the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN), East Bay Community Energy, Peninsula Clean Energy, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), City of Santa Monica, City of San Jose, Silicon Valley Clean Energy, Central Coast Community Energy, Marin Clean Energy, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), and the Tri-Country Regional Energy Network (3C-REN).
The Switch Is On campaign can be found at www.switchison.org. All Californians — including homeowners, renters and contractors — are encouraged to go to the website to learn more and get support in electrifying their homes. Those who have already begun their electrification journey can join the campaign’s ambassador program here.
About The Building Decarbonization Coalition
Launched in 2018, the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC) forges public-private partnerships among government authorities, utilities, manufacturers, builders and other vital sector stakeholders. These diverse and dynamic partnerships drive the development of clean energy powered, zero-emission homes, commercial Buildings and communities.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 15, 2021
PLEASE CONTACT:
Neal Kwatra
(917) 337-7661
kwatraneal@gmail.com
December 15, 2021
PLEASE CONTACT:
Neal Kwatra
(917) 337-7661
kwatraneal@gmail.com
The Building Decarbonization Coalition lauds passage of NYC Council Bill to Ban the Use of Gas in New Buildings
The bill will ban gas hookups in new buildings as a way to fight both air pollution and climate change, moving New York City further in its decarbonization goals.
The bill will ban gas hookups in new buildings as a way to fight both air pollution and climate change, moving New York City further in its decarbonization goals.
New York, NY — December 15, 2021 — Statement from Lisa Dix, the New York Director for Building Decarbonization Coalition (buildingdecarb.org), an innovative policy and market transformation organization advancing the development of zero-emission, clean energy powered homes, commercial buildings and communities, on the imminent passage of the ‘gas ban’ bill:
"The number one source of emissions in New York City is buildings. As our coalition embarks on a statewide process to decarbonize all commercial and residential spaces, New York City's seminal step will catalyze efforts across the state," said Lisa Dix, New York Director for the Building Decarbonization Coalition. "Within this decision lies the promise of a clean energy economy -- one that will generate thousands of unionized jobs and slash climate pollution from our built environment. When the largest city in the country takes this type of concrete action and shows bold climate leadership, we believe other cities, states and countries will take notice and act accordingly."
About The Building Decarbonization Coalition:
Launched in 2018, the Building Decarbonization Coalition, (buildingdecarb.org), forges Public-Private partnerships among government authorities, utilities, manufacturers, builders, and other vital sector stakeholders. These diverse and dynamic partnerships drive the development of clean energy-powered, zero-emission homes, commercial buildings, and communities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2021
September 10, 2021
MEDIA CONTACT: Allison MacMunn
allison@sunstonestrategies.org, 312.622.4004
allison@sunstonestrategies.org, 312.622.4004
BDC Lauds State Of CA. Effort To Address Extreme Heat Crisis With Investments In Community Resilience Centers, Clean Cooling, And Urban Greening
California Legislature invests more than $500 million in programs to
boost resilience in the face of extreme heat
Funding will go towards community resilience centers, upgrading homes with highly efficient
electric heat pump cooling systems, and urban greening programs
Sacramento, Calif.— As yet another climate-fueled heat wave grips California this week, legislators moved today to approve over $500 million in funding for next year for programs to boost community resilience in the face of extreme heat. The funding, which was agreed upon by the Legislature and the Newsom administration, includes $100 million for community resilience centers, $400 million for various extreme heat programs, including upgrading homes with highly efficient heat pump cooling systems, $65 million for low-income home weatherization and $250 million for urban greening.
Extreme temperatures across California and the West have fueled a spike in heat-related illness and death this summer, and lack of access to cooling is a major risk factor. The funding package takes aim at expanding access to cooling through landmark investments in both heat pumps in homes and resilience centers in communities.
A portion of the $400 million allocated to miscellaneous resiliency programs is expected to go to programs to upgrade homes with highly efficient electric heat pumps, which provide both cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. These updates, in addition to boosting resilience during heat waves, will also cut climate pollution, as heat pumps can eliminate the need for fossil fuel furnaces during the winter months.
“The reality is that in a hotter California, access to cooling in homes is a survival necessity. By equipping homes with highly efficient heat pump cooling systems, we can keep families safe during bouts of extreme heat, while reducing our state’s reliance on fossil fuels,” said Jose Torres, California director at the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
Lawmakers’ $100 million investment in community resilience centers will also go a long way to protecting households during heat waves. Community resilience centers located at trusted places like libraries, community centers and places of worship are designed to provide a convenient place for households to cool off during bouts of extreme heat, as well as access backup power and on-going community services and programs.
“This groundbreaking investment in community resilience hubs goes much further than the addition of cooling centers, which have been underutilized in the past. These hubs are designed to be places where community members can gather and access the services they need, both during periods of extreme heat, and throughout the year,” said Amee Raval, Policy and Research Director at the Asian Pacific Environmental Network.
Research shows that low-income communities are especially vulnerable to the heat-related health impacts, as they are less likely to have access to cooling at home. To maximize the life-saving impact of California’s extreme heat programs, it will be essential that low-income communities are first-in-line for investment.
The budget trailer bill next moves to Governor Newsom’s desk, where he is expected to sign the funding bill into law.
Extreme temperatures across California and the West have fueled a spike in heat-related illness and death this summer, and lack of access to cooling is a major risk factor. The funding package takes aim at expanding access to cooling through landmark investments in both heat pumps in homes and resilience centers in communities.
A portion of the $400 million allocated to miscellaneous resiliency programs is expected to go to programs to upgrade homes with highly efficient electric heat pumps, which provide both cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. These updates, in addition to boosting resilience during heat waves, will also cut climate pollution, as heat pumps can eliminate the need for fossil fuel furnaces during the winter months.
“The reality is that in a hotter California, access to cooling in homes is a survival necessity. By equipping homes with highly efficient heat pump cooling systems, we can keep families safe during bouts of extreme heat, while reducing our state’s reliance on fossil fuels,” said Jose Torres, California director at the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
Lawmakers’ $100 million investment in community resilience centers will also go a long way to protecting households during heat waves. Community resilience centers located at trusted places like libraries, community centers and places of worship are designed to provide a convenient place for households to cool off during bouts of extreme heat, as well as access backup power and on-going community services and programs.
“This groundbreaking investment in community resilience hubs goes much further than the addition of cooling centers, which have been underutilized in the past. These hubs are designed to be places where community members can gather and access the services they need, both during periods of extreme heat, and throughout the year,” said Amee Raval, Policy and Research Director at the Asian Pacific Environmental Network.
Research shows that low-income communities are especially vulnerable to the heat-related health impacts, as they are less likely to have access to cooling at home. To maximize the life-saving impact of California’s extreme heat programs, it will be essential that low-income communities are first-in-line for investment.
The budget trailer bill next moves to Governor Newsom’s desk, where he is expected to sign the funding bill into law.
The Flipside Report Launches--
And Leads California Away From Gas Use To A New Era Of Equitable Electrification
Petaluma, California—July 20, 2021--The Building Decarbonization Coalition (buildingdcarb.org) and Common Spark Consulting (common-spark.com)—leaders in the development of clean energy powered communities—announced the debut of The Flipside Report—calling for aggressive financial and public policy investment in targeted electrification to accelerate California’s transition away from fossil gas use.
The Flipside Report proposes a community-led, whole home and whole community approach to electrifying residences and commercial buildings as the pathway towards responsible reductions in gas usage. The report recommends implementing targeted decommissioning (‘Strategic Trimming’) of the gas pipeline network.
The report recommends that all the relevant California state agencies provide the regulatory reforms, financial resources, and leadership to ensure that electrification provides an accessible, cost effective and equitable solution for creating a decarbonized future.
The Flipside Report calls for dedicated funding to be provided to low income and vulnerable communities to support their transition toward all-electric homes and buildings. In addition, The Flipside Report urges that lawmakers implement anti-displacement and renter protection measures, and support programs that provide high quality job training and employment opportunities.
A Proactive, Progressive and Practical Path Towards Community Electrification, Equity and Empowerment:
The Flipside Report provides California’s policymakers with three key strategies for ensuring the state’s transition away from gas is equitable and cost-effective, avoiding otherwise anticipated skyrocketing gas costs to ratepayers:
PRIORITIZE INVESTMENT IN VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES:
ACCELERATE INVESTMENTS IN NON-PIPELINES ALTERNATIVES:
“The Flipside Report provides California—and our nation—a warning about the risks of moving away from gas without a clear plan. We must end our reliance on fossil fuels and move thoughtfully to a clean energy future in a responsible and cost-effective way,” said Michelle Vigen Ralston, Founder of Common Spark Consulting. “Implementing the report’s recommendations will ensure that communities take the lead in their own decarbonized future, and that the benefits of a clean energy economy are shared by everyone. The fight for climate change must be for our communities, not just for the climate itself.”
“The Flipside Report lays out the responsibility we have to our climate and our communities as we transition rapidly to clean electric alternatives and end the use of fossil gas,” said Panama Bartholomy, Executive Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition “We must ensure that our transition to a clean energy economy results in a more equitable and affordable future for every resident of California and the entire country.”
The Flipside Report proposes a community-led, whole home and whole community approach to electrifying residences and commercial buildings as the pathway towards responsible reductions in gas usage. The report recommends implementing targeted decommissioning (‘Strategic Trimming’) of the gas pipeline network.
The report recommends that all the relevant California state agencies provide the regulatory reforms, financial resources, and leadership to ensure that electrification provides an accessible, cost effective and equitable solution for creating a decarbonized future.
The Flipside Report calls for dedicated funding to be provided to low income and vulnerable communities to support their transition toward all-electric homes and buildings. In addition, The Flipside Report urges that lawmakers implement anti-displacement and renter protection measures, and support programs that provide high quality job training and employment opportunities.
A Proactive, Progressive and Practical Path Towards Community Electrification, Equity and Empowerment:
The Flipside Report provides California’s policymakers with three key strategies for ensuring the state’s transition away from gas is equitable and cost-effective, avoiding otherwise anticipated skyrocketing gas costs to ratepayers:
PRIORITIZE INVESTMENT IN VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES:
- Provide resources and investment in trusted community-based organizations to lead and support a community-driven transition to electrification.
- Expand successful direct installation, integrated programs and approaches that provide subsidized and comprehensive energy upgrades to make electrification a cost-saving transition.
- Partner with affordable housing and housing rights advocates to establish tenant protection and anti-displacement measures that state or local agencies can adopt to limit rent increases and restrict evictions.
ACCELERATE INVESTMENTS IN NON-PIPELINES ALTERNATIVES:
- Develop cost recovery, financing and amortization solutions which encourage the decommissioning of pipeline networks and encourage utilities to invest towards clean energy and decarbonization goals.
- Develop policies and regulations which encourage community based electrification, and a managed transition from gas based power that shares costs and benefits in an just and equitable way.
“The Flipside Report provides California—and our nation—a warning about the risks of moving away from gas without a clear plan. We must end our reliance on fossil fuels and move thoughtfully to a clean energy future in a responsible and cost-effective way,” said Michelle Vigen Ralston, Founder of Common Spark Consulting. “Implementing the report’s recommendations will ensure that communities take the lead in their own decarbonized future, and that the benefits of a clean energy economy are shared by everyone. The fight for climate change must be for our communities, not just for the climate itself.”
“The Flipside Report lays out the responsibility we have to our climate and our communities as we transition rapidly to clean electric alternatives and end the use of fossil gas,” said Panama Bartholomy, Executive Director of the Building Decarbonization Coalition “We must ensure that our transition to a clean energy economy results in a more equitable and affordable future for every resident of California and the entire country.”
THE BUILDING DECARBONIZATION COALITION APPOINTS LISA DIX AS
NEW YORK DIRECTOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 8, 2021
PLEASE CONTACT:
Mr. Richard G. Harris
1.917.445.2375
Richard@buildingdecarb.org
Former Leader of Sierra Club’s ‘Beyond Coal’ Campaign Will Spearhead Coalition’s Action Plan For Clean Energy Building Electrification, Phasing-out Fossil Fuel Use and Building Carbon Free Communities
New York, NY—June 8, 2021—The Building Decarbonization Coalition, (BDC) (buildingdecarb.org), an innovative policy and market transformation organization advancing the development of zero-emission, clean energy powered Homes, Commercial Buildings and Communities, today announced that Lisa Dix, formerly the Sierra Club’s New York State Senior Campaign Manager, has been appointed as the BDC’s New York Director.
Ms. Dix will be responsible for implementing the BDC’s bold and comprehensive agenda for powering New York’s homes and businesses with clean energy, ending the use of fossil fuels as a power source and ensuring that the benefits of a decarbonized, clean power economy are shared by all communities in New York state.
Prior to joining the BDC, Ms. Dix served as the Senior Campaign Manager of the Sierra Club’s groundbreaking ‘Beyond Coal,’ campaign, where her leadership was instrumental in ending the use of coal fired power plants in New York State. A longtime and vigorous advocate for renewable energy, Ms. Dix helped launch the state’s Offshore Wind Master Plan, committing New York State to generate 9,000 gigawatts of electricity from wind, the nation’s largest amount of wind generated energy.
“The BDC has been so instrumental in uniting all stakeholders—from builders, to utilities, governments and environmental organizations—in supporting the use of clean energy to power homes and companies,” Ms. Dix said.
“As the BDC’s first-ever New York Director, I am determined to forge alliances and partnerships with a broad range of organizations, so that together, we can execute an ambitious and achievable action plan for powering all of our buildings with clean energy,” Dix said. “We must end our use of fossil fuel power and ensure that our transition to a clean energy based power grid and economy is equitable, affordable and available to every citizen of New York State.”
“Lisa Dix, is a respected and exceptional leader in the mission to end our nation’s dependence on polluting fossil energy—she’s an expert at harnessing the power of collective community action to build a healthy, prosperous future powered by clean energy,” said Panama Bartholomy, Executive Director of the BDC.
“Lisa’s capabilities and expertise will play a vital role in achieving the BDC’s national strategy of driving the development of zero-emission Homes, Commercial Buildings and Communities—all operating with renewable power,” Bartholomy said. “We’re elated to welcome Lisa Dix to the BDC’s Senior Leadership Team.”
About The Building Decarbonization Coalition:
Launched in 2018, the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC), (buildingdecarb.org), forges Public-Private Partnerships among Government Authorities, Utilities, Manufacturers, Builders and other vital sector stakeholders. These diverse and dynamic partnerships drive the development of clean energy powered, zero-emission Homes, Commercial Buildings and Communities.
Discover how the BDC’s Market Transformation, Consumer, Public Policy and Research Initiatives help create prosperous, diverse and environmentally sustainable communities at: buildingdecarb.org
June 8, 2021
PLEASE CONTACT:
Mr. Richard G. Harris
1.917.445.2375
Richard@buildingdecarb.org
Former Leader of Sierra Club’s ‘Beyond Coal’ Campaign Will Spearhead Coalition’s Action Plan For Clean Energy Building Electrification, Phasing-out Fossil Fuel Use and Building Carbon Free Communities
New York, NY—June 8, 2021—The Building Decarbonization Coalition, (BDC) (buildingdecarb.org), an innovative policy and market transformation organization advancing the development of zero-emission, clean energy powered Homes, Commercial Buildings and Communities, today announced that Lisa Dix, formerly the Sierra Club’s New York State Senior Campaign Manager, has been appointed as the BDC’s New York Director.
Ms. Dix will be responsible for implementing the BDC’s bold and comprehensive agenda for powering New York’s homes and businesses with clean energy, ending the use of fossil fuels as a power source and ensuring that the benefits of a decarbonized, clean power economy are shared by all communities in New York state.
Prior to joining the BDC, Ms. Dix served as the Senior Campaign Manager of the Sierra Club’s groundbreaking ‘Beyond Coal,’ campaign, where her leadership was instrumental in ending the use of coal fired power plants in New York State. A longtime and vigorous advocate for renewable energy, Ms. Dix helped launch the state’s Offshore Wind Master Plan, committing New York State to generate 9,000 gigawatts of electricity from wind, the nation’s largest amount of wind generated energy.
“The BDC has been so instrumental in uniting all stakeholders—from builders, to utilities, governments and environmental organizations—in supporting the use of clean energy to power homes and companies,” Ms. Dix said.
“As the BDC’s first-ever New York Director, I am determined to forge alliances and partnerships with a broad range of organizations, so that together, we can execute an ambitious and achievable action plan for powering all of our buildings with clean energy,” Dix said. “We must end our use of fossil fuel power and ensure that our transition to a clean energy based power grid and economy is equitable, affordable and available to every citizen of New York State.”
“Lisa Dix, is a respected and exceptional leader in the mission to end our nation’s dependence on polluting fossil energy—she’s an expert at harnessing the power of collective community action to build a healthy, prosperous future powered by clean energy,” said Panama Bartholomy, Executive Director of the BDC.
“Lisa’s capabilities and expertise will play a vital role in achieving the BDC’s national strategy of driving the development of zero-emission Homes, Commercial Buildings and Communities—all operating with renewable power,” Bartholomy said. “We’re elated to welcome Lisa Dix to the BDC’s Senior Leadership Team.”
About The Building Decarbonization Coalition:
Launched in 2018, the Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC), (buildingdecarb.org), forges Public-Private Partnerships among Government Authorities, Utilities, Manufacturers, Builders and other vital sector stakeholders. These diverse and dynamic partnerships drive the development of clean energy powered, zero-emission Homes, Commercial Buildings and Communities.
Discover how the BDC’s Market Transformation, Consumer, Public Policy and Research Initiatives help create prosperous, diverse and environmentally sustainable communities at: buildingdecarb.org
The BDC Announces New Appointments to Our Executive Leadership Team
The Building Decarbonization Coalition is thrilled to announce a strategic expansion of our Senior Executive Team. Enhancing the BDC’s capabilities in the areas of Mission Implementation, Operations, State Level Initiatives, Communications and Strategic Partnerships, each new member of the BDC’s Senior Executive Team will report to Panama Bartholomy, Executive Director:
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Johanna Partin has been appointed as the Deputy Director of The Building Decarbonization Coalition. Prior to her appointment as Deputy Director, Ms. Partin was the Founding Director of the Carbon Neutral Cities Alliance. She is the former North American Regional Director of the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group and Senior Environmental Policy Advisor to former San Francisco Mayors Gavin Newsom and Edward Lee. Johanna@buildingdecarb.org |
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Jose Torres has joined the BDC as California Director. Mr. Torres is the former Energy Equity Program Manager for the California Environmental Justice Alliance. Mr. Torres has also served as an Analyst with the California Energy Commission and as a Legislative Aide to Members of The California State Assembly. Jose@buildingdecarb.org |
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Bryce Butler has been named the BDC’s Director of Strategic Partnerships. Mr. Butler is the former VP of Operations and Business Development for Proposal Lab, a corporate consulting and advisory firm. Prior to his tenure at Proposal Lab, Mr. Butler served as an Administrator for St. Paul's Senior Services and Executive Director with Bridgestone Senior Living. A U.S. Veteran, Mr. Butler served as a Green Beret, U.S. Army Special Forces. Bryce@buildingdecarb.org |
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Jessica Leader has been named as the BDC’s Co-Director of Communications. Prior to joining the BDC, Ms. Leader served as the Corporate Communications Manager for Sunrun, the national leader in home solar and energy services. Prior to Sunrun, Ms. Leader served as the Communications Director for FreeWire Technologies and as the Director of Eco, Wellness and Social Responsibility Partnerships for the HuffPost Partner Studio. Jessica@buildingdecarb.org |
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Richard G. Harris has been named as the BDC’s Co-Director of Communications. From 2015-2020, Mr. Harris served as the Strategic Communications Advisor to the Chairman and Senior Leadership of Afghanistan’s Bayat Group, Afghanistan’s largest company, and to Bayat Power, Afghanistan’s largest Energy Exploration, Development and Production Company. Prior to the Bayat Group, Mr. Harris served as Strategic Communications Counsel to Energy, Cleantech, Finance, Technology, and Public Policy Enterprises located in the U.S., EU, MENA, and India. Richard@buildingdecarb.org |
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Ashleigh Spurgeon has been named as the BDC’s Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships. Ms. Spurgeon previously served as the BDC’s Operations Manager, responsible for the implementation of the organization’s Membership, Research and Communications Initiatives. Ashleigh@buildingdecarb.org |
First-of-its-kind Policy Roadmap Provides Strategies to Ensure Equitable Access to Pollution Free Homes and Workspaces
The New Accessible Financing White Paper is Here!
Innovative financing tool could ensure that clean technologies are not just for affluent Californians
San Francisco, Calif.— On the heels of newly released data showing that California’s clean energy programs disproportionately benefit the wealthy, a first-of-its-kind roadmap outlines how policymakers could work with stakeholders to help low-and moderate-income and renter households across California, which together make up more than 40 percent of the state’s population, access building upgrades that enable greater access to clean technologies that slash indoor air pollution.
Widespread participation in clean, electric home upgrades is critical to meaningfully reduce harmful building emissions, yet clean energy investments remain out of reach for many energy customers who have neither the money to afford the upgrades nor the credit necessary to borrow what they cost.
“This roadmap is needed now more than ever as California breaks new ground in expanding building electrification,” said Panama Bartholomy, executive director of the Building Electrification Coalition. “The road to adoption and implementation has not yet been paved for building decarbonization. This map is essential for ensuring everyone can access cutting edge, clean building technologies.”
The roadmap in the new report “Towards an Accessible Financing Solution: A Policy Roadmap with Program Implementation Considerations for Tariffed On-Bill Programs in California” outlines how policymakers can:
“The overarching goal is finding an accessible financing solution for clean energy upgrades that is universally accessible to all California households, without regard to income level,” said Holmes Hummel, founder of Clean Energy Works and co-author of the report. “We believe that a solution that works for renters as well as lower income households will also expand accessibility to clean energy for higher-income property owners.”
The Building Decarbonization Coalition commissioned researchers to investigate successful program models from other states and compile stakeholder input into the report with the goal of opening the state’s clean energy economy to all households and renters, recommending innovative financial tools to help solve the problem.
One innovative financing tool would expand access to cleaner, healthier electric homes using tariffed on-bill programs that allow a utility to pay for cost-effective energy improvements at a specific residence, such as home heating and cooling units, and to recover its costs for those improvements over time through a dedicated charge on the utility bill that is immediately less than the estimated savings from the improvements.
Similar tariffed on-bill programs for energy efficiency upgrades have been successfully implemented during the past 18 years in eight states by 18 utilities from Hawaii to New Hampshire, including investor owned, cooperative, and municipal utilities. Program results indicate consistently high adoption rates for clean energy upgrades and low charge-off rates for nonpayment, even in areas characterized by conditions of persistent poverty.
Thirty cities and counties across California have already moved to make buildings healthier and more climate friendly by passing all-electric building measures to cut pollution from new homes and buildings—which are responsible for 25% of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions—almost half (12%) of which come from residential homes. Slashing these emissions would help the state meet its 100% clean energy goals.
The roadmap is a tool to help policymakers craft policies that eliminate long standing barriers like high upfront costs that prevent many California households from making clean energy investments—and also support the scale of investment needed to meet California’s looming climate targets. The Equitable Building Electrification framework released by Greenlining Institute and Energy Efficiency For All has also called on policy-makers to find ways to support financing solutions such as tariffed on-bill investments to ensure all communities can be served.
The roadmap identifies four criteria as benchmarks for successful policy design:
These financing tools boost clean energy investments among low-income Californians–those most likely to be left depending on the declining gas system as wealthier customers voluntarily switch to clean energy—while at the same time expanding access to clean energy across all incomes.
“California will need an artful combination of updated building codes, appliance standards, regulatory requirements, public funding, and ratepayer-funded incentives, combined with policies to ensure low-income households and renters have access to affordable clean energy solutions to achieve building decarbonization at the scale necessary to meet the state’s climate protection goals,” said Hummel.
Read the full report!
On July 9, the Building Decarbonized Coalition hosted a webinar to celebrate the publication of BDC’s policy roadmap for Tariffed On-Bill investments in California featuring a video conference briefing on the white paper contents. The white paper outlines a policy roadmap for expanding access to clean energy investment opportunities, particularly for low- and moderate-income households and renters. The report represents the culmination of six months of research and stakeholder input and calls for $36 billion in private capital investments to augment California’s publicly funded programs.
Speakers included Holmes Hummel, a nationally recognized subject matter expert on tariffed on-bill investments, having written the investment plans for utility program in North Carolina and Arkansas and securing millions of dollars of low cost capital for investment in service areas recognized for persistent poverty, and project manager Bruce Mast, who shepherded the white paper to completion and contributed a career’s worth of experience in California energy policy, program implementation, performance risk management, and the customer economics of building electrification.
Webinar Recording
Presentation
The New Accessible Financing White Paper is Here!
Innovative financing tool could ensure that clean technologies are not just for affluent Californians
San Francisco, Calif.— On the heels of newly released data showing that California’s clean energy programs disproportionately benefit the wealthy, a first-of-its-kind roadmap outlines how policymakers could work with stakeholders to help low-and moderate-income and renter households across California, which together make up more than 40 percent of the state’s population, access building upgrades that enable greater access to clean technologies that slash indoor air pollution.
Widespread participation in clean, electric home upgrades is critical to meaningfully reduce harmful building emissions, yet clean energy investments remain out of reach for many energy customers who have neither the money to afford the upgrades nor the credit necessary to borrow what they cost.
“This roadmap is needed now more than ever as California breaks new ground in expanding building electrification,” said Panama Bartholomy, executive director of the Building Electrification Coalition. “The road to adoption and implementation has not yet been paved for building decarbonization. This map is essential for ensuring everyone can access cutting edge, clean building technologies.”
The roadmap in the new report “Towards an Accessible Financing Solution: A Policy Roadmap with Program Implementation Considerations for Tariffed On-Bill Programs in California” outlines how policymakers can:
- Open a more accessible and equitable path to clean energy solutions.
- Remove barriers to accessing clean energy solutions.
- Address embedded barriers to clean energy solutions.
“The overarching goal is finding an accessible financing solution for clean energy upgrades that is universally accessible to all California households, without regard to income level,” said Holmes Hummel, founder of Clean Energy Works and co-author of the report. “We believe that a solution that works for renters as well as lower income households will also expand accessibility to clean energy for higher-income property owners.”
The Building Decarbonization Coalition commissioned researchers to investigate successful program models from other states and compile stakeholder input into the report with the goal of opening the state’s clean energy economy to all households and renters, recommending innovative financial tools to help solve the problem.
One innovative financing tool would expand access to cleaner, healthier electric homes using tariffed on-bill programs that allow a utility to pay for cost-effective energy improvements at a specific residence, such as home heating and cooling units, and to recover its costs for those improvements over time through a dedicated charge on the utility bill that is immediately less than the estimated savings from the improvements.
Similar tariffed on-bill programs for energy efficiency upgrades have been successfully implemented during the past 18 years in eight states by 18 utilities from Hawaii to New Hampshire, including investor owned, cooperative, and municipal utilities. Program results indicate consistently high adoption rates for clean energy upgrades and low charge-off rates for nonpayment, even in areas characterized by conditions of persistent poverty.
Thirty cities and counties across California have already moved to make buildings healthier and more climate friendly by passing all-electric building measures to cut pollution from new homes and buildings—which are responsible for 25% of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions—almost half (12%) of which come from residential homes. Slashing these emissions would help the state meet its 100% clean energy goals.
The roadmap is a tool to help policymakers craft policies that eliminate long standing barriers like high upfront costs that prevent many California households from making clean energy investments—and also support the scale of investment needed to meet California’s looming climate targets. The Equitable Building Electrification framework released by Greenlining Institute and Energy Efficiency For All has also called on policy-makers to find ways to support financing solutions such as tariffed on-bill investments to ensure all communities can be served.
The roadmap identifies four criteria as benchmarks for successful policy design:
- The ability to finance upgrades over long period time (10-15 years) even in rental units with multiple changes in tenancy
- Ability to leverage utility bill savings to defray investment costs, rather than rely on consumer credit or home equity
- Cash-positive outcomes that assure low and moderate income customers will not experience increased energy burdens
- Ability to scale to serve millions of California households
These financing tools boost clean energy investments among low-income Californians–those most likely to be left depending on the declining gas system as wealthier customers voluntarily switch to clean energy—while at the same time expanding access to clean energy across all incomes.
“California will need an artful combination of updated building codes, appliance standards, regulatory requirements, public funding, and ratepayer-funded incentives, combined with policies to ensure low-income households and renters have access to affordable clean energy solutions to achieve building decarbonization at the scale necessary to meet the state’s climate protection goals,” said Hummel.
Read the full report!
On July 9, the Building Decarbonized Coalition hosted a webinar to celebrate the publication of BDC’s policy roadmap for Tariffed On-Bill investments in California featuring a video conference briefing on the white paper contents. The white paper outlines a policy roadmap for expanding access to clean energy investment opportunities, particularly for low- and moderate-income households and renters. The report represents the culmination of six months of research and stakeholder input and calls for $36 billion in private capital investments to augment California’s publicly funded programs.
Speakers included Holmes Hummel, a nationally recognized subject matter expert on tariffed on-bill investments, having written the investment plans for utility program in North Carolina and Arkansas and securing millions of dollars of low cost capital for investment in service areas recognized for persistent poverty, and project manager Bruce Mast, who shepherded the white paper to completion and contributed a career’s worth of experience in California energy policy, program implementation, performance risk management, and the customer economics of building electrification.
Webinar Recording
Presentation