PA Daily News: Palo Alto eyes energy efficiency mandate

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Wouldn't it be nice if Mtn View could do this?...

Powering down: Palo Alto eyes energy efficiency mandate

By Will Oremus / Daily News Staff Writer
Sunday Sep 7

Soon, power-saving features such as extra insulation, double-pane
windows and advanced heating and cooling systems may no longer be an
option in Palo Alto construction projects. They'll be a requirement.

On Monday, the city council will consider an ordinance mandating that
all new buildings be 15 percent more energy-efficient than state codes
require.

The move would add a new dimension to the city's green building
ordinance, which was approved in June. Palo Alto would become just the
13th city in California to hike local energy efficiency standards
above state guidelines. Los Altos became the 12th last month.

It's the latest step in the city's sustained push toward cutting its
greenhouse gas emissions, a policy formalized in the Climate
Protection Plan it passed in December. A study found that 43 percent
of all emissions in the city stem from natural gas and electricity
use.

While some Peninsula cities have shied away from green mandates,
preferring to start with voluntary guidelines, Council Member Peter
Drekmeier said he sees no need for half-measures.

"We're very confident about our approah," he said. "We have the
technology for green buildings, we have the expertise. In some cases
it costs a little bit more, but it's an up-front investment. The
average structure exists for 50 years, so (over that time period) you
not only save a lot of energy but save a lot of money."

A cost-effectiveness study by the Berkeley-based consultants Gabel
Associates found that the new rules would add between 50 cents and
$1.50 per square foot to construction costs for most types of
structures. The energy savings would cover those costs in seven to 25
years, depending on the structure.

Before Palo Alto can go ahead with the changes, it will need
permission from the California Energy Commission. It has to show that
its policies are cost-effective and not counter-productive.

Once enacted, the policy would take effect after 30 days.

The city council will meet at 7 p.m. Monday in the Council Chambers,
250 Hamilton Ave.

Consideration of the energy ordinance will follow a study session on
an affordable housing project proposed for 488 W. Charleston Road.

E-mail Will Oremus at wor...@dailynewsgroup.com.