Zero Net Energy Policies
Similar to many states, California is addressing climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production and use. The state’s Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (i.e., Assembly Bill 32) established the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. One approach to meeting this climate change goal is by specifying the loading order for electricity resources. In short, that means that the state will meet new electricity needs first with energy efficiency and demand response and second with new generation from renewable energy and distributed generation resources.
Zero Net Energy Chartwell School located in Seaside, CA
The state’s Air Resources Board calls for energy efficiency measures that would reduce electricity demand by 32,000 GWhs. These measures would in turn reduce CO2 emissions by 19.5 million metric tons by 2020. Energy efficiency measures don’t always mean sitting in a cold, dark house trying to do your part to slow down climate change.
California is examining building and appliance efficiency standards. While the state already has the lowest per capital electricity use in the US, and one that has remained stable for over 30 years, maintaining business as usual is not enough to meet carbon reduction goals.
Increasing efficiency standards for buildings and combining with onsite generation results in newly constructed buildings with the potential for zero net energy by 2020 for residences and 2030 for commercial buildings.
Making zero net energy buildings a reality will require close cooperation among various state agencies, local governments, utilities, and industry players. Similar to other approaches such as waste reduction, California should set clear standards and then help remove obstacles to implementation. Only then will the state achieve its goal of buildings that produce all of their own power.
Additional detail on California’s energy policies can be found in the California Energy Commission’s 2009 Integrated Energy Policy Report (pdf)
