AB 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act, requires the state to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. AB 32 will help California reach its energy efficiency goals.
As part of its implementation of AB 32, the Air Resources Board (ARB) is working on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from multiple sectors of California’s economy. More information on the sectors regarding control measures, reduction strategies, working groups, protocols and other pertinent information can be found here: Economic Sectors Portal
AB 802 establishes new statewide building energy use benchmarking with public disclosure. It requires utilities to provide energy data for covered buildings to owners upon request, and it requires the state Energy Commission to establish a benchmarking and public disclosure program for specified buildings. AB 802, which replaces the current time-of-transaction building energy disclosure program, is slated to take effect in 2017.
SB 350, the California Clean Energy and Pollution Reduction Act, expands the state’s renewable energy and energy efficiency goals. It requires California to generate half of its energy from renewable sources by 2030 and double energy efficiency in homes and workplaces by the same year.
AB 758, California’s Existing Building Energy Efficiency Framework, addresses the need to improve energy performance of existing buildings. AB 758 requires the California Energy Commission (CEC), in collaboration with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and stakeholders, to develop a comprehensive program to achieve greater efficiency in existing buildings while meeting the needs of energy users and building owners.
SB 375, California’s Sustainable Communities Act, was enacted to reduce emissions through regional transportation and land use planning. SB 375 will help local governments create more sustainable communities while complying with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations to reduce GHG emissions.
Follow this link to find answers to the top questions related to the strategic plan.
The Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE) Solution Center is an information portal for state and local governments to learn about clean energy policies and projects. EERE is an office of the U.S. Department of Energy.
The CEC has adopted the 2016 Building Energy Efficiency Standards that go into effect Jan. 1, 2017. These new building codes are intended to reduce energy costs, save consumers money and increase comfort in new and upgraded homes and workplaces. The standards are a step closer to California’s zero net energy goals which require buildings to produce as much energy as they consume. The zero net energy target for new residential construction is 2020, and the target for new commercial buildings is 2030. The new standards encompass California Title 24 regulations and CalGreen building codes.
Follow the link to learn more about the CPUC's Energy Efficiency Programs