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Berkeley Climate Action Plan Awaits Approval

The City of Berkeley’s Climate Action Plan, of which their solar plan is essentially a part, may be taking effect sooner than later. Currently May 5, 2009 is the date set for city council approval of what would be the most aggressive set of energy standards in the nation. The plan itself comes in response to Berkeley voters’ landmark choice to curb city greenhouse gas emissions by 80% before 2050.

Photo Credit: box of lettuce

The Climate Action Plan does not shy away from meeting that goal. Within a few years Berkeley will likely mandate that all homes meet very strict energy requirements. This may include everything from a new white roof, new furnace, windows, insulation, and high-efficiency appliances. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the estimated cost to make all these improvements would be anywhere from $33,000 to $46,000.

That is where the hot debate comes in. Opponents claim that the plan is much too costly, unfair, and subsequently, an impossibility for local homeowners. Proponents say that this is the only way to meet the energy requirements set by the voters themselves. The city would offer rebates and financial incentives to homeowners in order to facilitate compliance. Yet within a few years the city would turn to penalties for noncompliant homeowners.

Berkeley already has strict efficiency rules governing homes when they are sold or when major remodeling is done. The new plan and requirements would be even more strict and apply to all homes, and eventually local businesses and industries as well.

For more information:

San Francisco Chronicle

Berkeley Climate Action

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