On Tuesday Dec 1, 2020 the San Jose City Council voted 8 to 3 in favor to ban natural gas in newly constructed homes and buildings. A short time later, the Oakland City Council unanimously passed a similar measure.
San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo was quoted “San Jose has been leading on climate initiatives for many years, but this move is particularly important as we try to set an example for cities throughout the country … “
Last July Berkeley became the first city in the nation while San Francisco followed in November to prohibit natural gas in new construction.
Having just replaced florescent lighting fixtures which were mandated by energy conservation requirements and then made obsolete by concerns over the mercury contained in the light bulbs, I hope the increasing number of natural gas bans don’t lead to future waste. I am very in favor of reducing man’s impact on the natural environment and have been replacing both incandescent and florescent lighting with LED lighting, but statements about “setting an example” by politicians are worrisome. The advantages of LED lighting would drive LED’s to become dominant without a politician wanting to set an example.
Looking forward, what is going to replace the luxury commercial style gas ranges? We may see more innovation in high end electric kitchen appliances. It will take time but there are probably going to be some enticing new products.
Please, thoughtfully support a green earth.
(I thank KQED for the news)
Read more about San Jose Real Estate