Berkeley voted unanimously to adopt a “first in the nation” ordinance in July 2019 that prohibited gas in all new construction. Berkeley’s gas ordinance was unique because it did not go through the traditional reach code route, which requires approval from the California Energy Commission (CEC). Instead, Berkeley used its city authority to phase out new gas hookups on the grounds of public health and safety.
The ordinance was widely supported by the community, including PG&E, East Bay Clean Energy, environmental and climate organizations, and green builders. Berkeley’s commitment is one of the strongest in the state, though other leadership cities and counties are looking at Berkeley’s model and thinking about how they can go even further.
Unfortunately, in early 2024, Berkeley’s policy was thrown out by the 9th Circuit. They are currently looking at other options to keep fossil fuels out of buildings.
