Editorial: ‘Electrification roadmap’ a big step in right direction for Marin

Electrification of our homes and businesses – weaning them from our dependence on natural gas – is listed as one of the top ways to do our part of meeting the state’s climate change goals.

California’s goal – approved by Sacramento lawmakers and endorsed by voters – is to reduce our greenhouse gas generation by 40% of our 1990 level by 2023.

Use of natural gas is listed as the source of 27% of our greenhouse gas generation, topped by transportation that represents 52%.

We’ve been tackling transportation, with the addition of electric buses and steady consumer growth in turning to hybrid and electric vehicles. High gasoline prices and increasing the availability of EV charging stations are encouraging this change.

The county’s recent release of an “electrification roadmap” for commercial and residential properties is also a big step, if its “actions” are actually implemented by the county and Marin’s municipalities.

A big part of this plan is bolstering consumer awareness of the potential cost benefits of turning to electrical options for stovetops, water heaters and heating and air-conditioning systems.

Incentives would also help promote this shift, from streamlined permit approval to tax breaks.

Marin municipalities could also lead by example, where possible moving from heating systems run on natural gas to greener electricity-run services. They should also consider increasing their use of solar-generated electricity.

These are big investments, but they also serve as examples for owners of residential and commercial properties.

Doing little, while requiring the private sector to make changes, is not leading by example.

Municipalities could also work together by providing consumer-friendly information on resources and benefits of making the switch.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has banned the sale of furnaces and water heaters starting in 2027.

Local municipalities need to take a look at their permitting process and make sure it facilitates that change.

Proposals to ban new gas ranges have run into some public blowback as many consumers prefer cooking with gas. As a short-term alternative, focusing on informing consumers about the health and cost benefits of electric stovetops may be an effective measure in encouraging the shift.

Public agencies can also promote change by giving the public annual progress reports, detailing the effectiveness of change with figures regarding the amount of conversion and its impact on reducing greenhouse gasses.

“We need to make this journey now,” says David Moller of the Marin-Sonoma Building Electrification Squad. “We have the road map; we just need the commitment of the jurisdictions and the communities to implement this change.”

The goal is to do our part as the greater Marin community to reduce air pollution and its damage to our climate.

A 2022 Marin County Civil Grand Jury called for the creation of a countywide plan of measures that need to be taken to bring about effective change.

The “electrification roadmap” is a plan for meeting that challenge and need for change.