Title
Public Hearing to Consider Recommending Adoption of the Equitable Building Decarbonization Plan. CEQA Determination: This action is statutorily exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to actions that have the potential to cause a significant impact on the environment
Body
To: Honorable President and Members of the Planning Board
From: Danielle Mieler, Sustainability and Resilience Manager
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Equitable Building Decarbonization Plan (Plan) lays out the process for shifting natural gas use in existing buildings toward clean, energy efficient all-electric buildings in accordance with the City's climate and equity goals. The Plan provides a phased approach that includes new policies and programs, financing options, expanded rebates, and community education and outreach. The Plan will align with other citywide efforts to create affordable, safe, healthy and resilient housing and prepare the City to leverage grants and funds as they become available.
BACKGROUND
The Climate Action and Resiliency Plan (CARP) set goals to reduce emissions by 50% below 2005 levels and achieve carbon neutrality as soon as possible. The Climate Emergency Declaration set the ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) laid a strong foundation for building decarbonization by providing 100% clean, carbon free electricity since 2020. Currently, 70% of Alameda's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from transportation, 27% from natural gas use in buildings, and 3% from other sources such as waste, water, and wastewater. To reach the City's carbon neutrality goal, net zero emission buildings that do not burn natural gas are an essential strategy and the focus of this plan. With 100% clean electric energy provided by AMP, electrifying all existing buildings would eliminate 27% of GHG ...
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